Technology News 29.01.2026

Publishers block Internet Archive over AI-scraping fears

January 29, 2026, 11:58 PM EST. Publishers including The Guardian, The New York Times, and others are blocking the Internet Archive's bot from accessing content amid fears AI firms will scrape articles for training. The Guardian calls the API an easy entry point for machines; the NYT says the Wayback Machine provides unfettered access without authorization. FT and Reddit have also restricted cataloging. The moves unfold as publishers sue AI firms-OpenAI and Microsoft- and push licensing or compensation deals. Other actions touch The Wall Street Journal, New York Post, Perplexity, and Cohere. Some outlets seek negotiated licenses to balance access with protections; debates over training data, copyright, and piracy widen across media and tech. Nieman Lab's coverage frames the broader industry response.

FCC expands 6 GHz Wi-Fi use with geofenced variable power rules

January 29, 2026, 11:56 PM EST. FCC expands how unlicensed devices may use the 6 GHz Wi-Fi band, creating a new geofenced variable power (GVP) category that lets certain products operate at higher power outdoors under location-based controls to avoid interference. The move aims to support next-gen wearables, smart-home gear and emerging devices, and to accompany newer routers and chips already in development. Officials describe it as a way to 'supercharge' Wi-Fi. Changes are not immediate, but over the next few years, future phones, wearables and home devices could see faster, more reliable 6 GHz connectivity as manufacturers adopt the rules and hardware supports it. Google has already enabled 6 GHz hotspot capabilities on Pixel phones; the adjustment broadens permissible use for many unlicensed devices.

Windows 11 hits 1 billion users, faster to milestone than Windows 10, Nadella says

January 29, 2026, 11:54 PM EST. Windows 11 has surpassed 1 billion users, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said on the latest earnings call, confirmed via The Verge. The milestone arrived in 1,576 days after its October 5, 2021 launch, faster than Windows 10's 1,692 days. Unlike Windows 10, offered as a free upgrade from older Windows versions with no new requirements, Windows 11 remains a free upgrade but enforces stricter hardware rules, leaving many PCs ineligible. Data on current share is noisy, but Statcounter estimates about half of Windows PCs run Windows 11 and 40-45% run Windows 10. Dell's COO Jeffrey Clarke, citing late-2025 data, says roughly 1 billion active Windows 10 PCs remain, with about 500 million not eligible for upgrade. The data suggest a plausible near-even split.

Former Google engineer convicted of stealing AI trade secrets for Chinese firms

January 29, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. A federal jury in San Francisco found Linwei Ding, also known as Leon Ding, guilty on all counts in a case that accuses him of stealing AI trade secrets from Google and spying for Chinese technology firms. The 11-day trial concluded with convictions on seven counts of theft of trade secrets and seven counts of economic espionage. Prosecutors said Ding copied more than 1,000 internal Google files-about 14,000 pages-and moved them to personal cloud accounts while working on Google's data centers that support AI models and custom chips. The defense argued Google failed to protect the material; Ding's attorneys said he never sold or used the data. Indicted in 2024, with a superseding indictment in 2025, the case highlights tensions around China-linked tech procurement and national security.

iOS 26.3 beta adds wallpaper options, limit precise location and Android transfer

January 29, 2026, 11:44 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.3 beta adds wallpaper tweaks, a privacy option, and cross-platform refinements. The beta splits the Weather & Astronomy wallpaper row into two, adds two live-weather wallpaper configurations with different widgets and fonts. A new Black Unity wallpaper is expected in the stable release. The update also introduces limit precise location, reducing cellular networks' access to exact coordinates, while preserving emergency-location accuracy. The feature is limited to devices with Apple's C1/C1X modems and is currently available to Boost Mobile in the US and EE/BT in the UK. Interoperability with Android improves via a Transfer to Android option. Apple cautions the setting doesn't affect signal or critical location data. A full public release and a new Siri 26.4 generation are slated for spring.

Perplexity inks $750 million Microsoft Azure AI cloud deal as AWS dispute simmers

January 29, 2026, 11:42 PM EST. Perplexity has signed a three-year, $750 million deal to run its AI workloads on Microsoft Azure via the Foundry service, expanding beyond its longtime AWS partnership. The agreement covers access to frontier models from OpenAI, Anthropic, and xAI, while Perplexity says it will continue to rely on AWS as its primary cloud provider for the time being. The deal comes as Perplexity and Amazon remain embroiled in a legal dispute over the use of its tools in Amazon's marketplace, with Amazon accusing the startup of enabling shopping abuses and Perplexity calling the actions a threat to user choice. The move positions Azure as a multi-vendor platform for AI workloads, aligning with Nadella's push for broad model interoperability.

Apple's AI monetization remains unclear as Tim Cook points to value across devices

January 29, 2026, 11:40 PM EST. Apple reported $143.8 billion in revenue and a 16% year-over-year rise. On the earnings call, Morgan Stanley's Erik Woodring asked how Apple would monetize AI beyond costs. Tim Cook replied that Apple is bringing intelligence to more of what people love, and that it's integrating AI across the OS in a personal and private way, which will create value and open up opportunities across products and services. The answer offered little on specifics, leaving some analysts skeptical about near-term monetization. By contrast, others note a broader shift toward a vibes-driven AI strategy in tech, with OpenAI planning profitability much later, if at all. The exchange underlined Apple's cautious approach to AI monetization amid heavy investor scrutiny.

Koi Computers rolls out NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition support in 2U/4U HPC servers

January 29, 2026, 11:38 PM EST. Koi Computers disclosed a line of enterprise servers that support the NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition. The datacenter GPU features 96 GB of GDDR7 memory and integrates Blackwell architecture innovations. Server configurations are available in 2U and 4U form factors with support for up to 8 GPUs. The offering targets AI, scientific computing, graphics and video workloads in enterprise and federal settings. Headquartered in Greater Chicago since 1995, Koi emphasizes custom IT solutions, benchmarking and support, with CPARS and Past Performance ratings for U.S. federal deployments. The firm is a Prime Contract Holder on GSA IT Schedule 70, NASA SEWP V, ITES-4H and NITAAC CIO-CS, and participates in the 2GIT BPA. For more, contact 888-LOVE-KOI or [email protected].

Apple cites chip-supply constraints as iPhone demand rises, memory prices climb

January 29, 2026, 11:36 PM EST. Apple posted a blowout first-quarter and forecast 13%-16% revenue growth for the March quarter, contingent on meeting strong iPhone demand. The company said constraints come from access to advanced node manufacturing for its SoCs, notably the 3-nanometer process at TSMC, which Apple relies on for A-series and M-series chips. Tim Cook stressed limited supply flexibility amid surging demand and said the company is pursuing greater access to chip production but would not forecast beyond March. Analysts questioned memory component costs, which have spiked as AI data centers drive demand, but Cook signaled Apple would explore options and focus on inventory. Gross margin in the March quarter is guided at 48%-49%.

DJI RS 5 debuts with lighter design, enhanced tracking for videographers

January 29, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. The DJI RS 5 is a new lightweight commercial gimbal designed for working videographers and filmmakers seeking extra stability and precision. It follows the RS 4 and RS 4 Mini with a focus on ease of use, stability and longer runtime. Weighing 1.46 kg with the battery grip and quick-release plates, it can support a payload of up to 3 kg and is compatible with a wide range of mirrorless cameras and lenses. Key features include enhanced intelligent subject tracking, including non-human targets such as vehicles and pets, and focused tracking up to 10 meters for people. The Intelligent Tracking Module mounts magnetically for quick setup. DJI positions the RS 5 as a practical upgrade for cinematic sequences and dynamic shoots.

MIT engineers design heat-powered silicon structures that compute

January 29, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. MIT researchers have designed silicon micro-structures that perform computations using excess heat rather than electricity. The tiny, porous silicon blocks guide heat flow for calculations, with output read as power at a fixed-temperature end. In tests, the system achieved more than 99 percent accuracy in matrix-vector multiplication-an essential operation behind machine-learning models. The approach is a form of analog computing, encoding data as temperatures and using heat conduction as the computational medium. The work relies on inverse design software that specifies the desired functionality first, then iteratively shapes the geometry to fit it. While scale-up has challenges for large deep-learning tasks, the method could help detect heat sources or monitor temperature changes in electronics without extra energy and reduce sensor clutter on chips. The paper appears in Physical Review Applied.

SpaceX, xAI and Tesla in talks for potential merger, reports say

January 29, 2026, 11:26 PM EST. Three of Elon Musk's firms-SpaceX, xAI and Tesla-are in early talks about a potential merger, according to Bloomberg and Reuters. Two scenarios are on the table: a SpaceX-Tesla consolidation, or a SpaceX-xAI combination that could fold in all three. Nevada filings on January 21 show new entities named K2 Merger Sub Inc. and K2 Merger Sub 2 LLC, signaling optional merger schemes. A deal could precede a planned SpaceX IPO this year, with products such as Grok, the X platform, Starlink and rockets under one umbrella. Investors have backed xAI and SpaceX; last year SpaceX invested $2B in xAI, and Tesla followed with a similar stake. The timing remains uncertain; a June IPO remains possible but unconfirmed, per Financial Times.

Predict'AIR uses smartphone data to forecast urban air quality and guide planning

January 29, 2026, 11:24 PM EST. Researchers in Boston are using volunteers' smartphones to map mobility in the BostonWalks project, while Orange's FluxVision/ Mobility Engine converts mobile signalling into high-resolution population flows. By differentiating transport modes and merging data sources, Orange says it can predict pollution with 500m rural and under-200m urban precision. The Predict'AIR project ties mobility to emissions, aiming to forecast air quality while accounting for traffic and weather. To protect privacy, the work relies on artificial intelligence to generate synthetic datasets. The effort supports urban planning and public policy, offering planners and telecom operators next-day insight into where high-speed rail coverage or road networks influence emissions and air quality.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G price drops to $229.95 on Amazon, all-time low

January 29, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. Amazon is offering the 128GB Samsung Galaxy A36 5G at $229.95 shipped in black, a steep cut from a $400 MSRP and an all-time low for the model. The $170 savings exceed 42% of the MSRP. The A36 5G sits in Samsung's entry-level A series as a simple daily Android driver, far cheaper than the flagship S line. It features a 6.7-inch display and marketing notes such as Circle to Search with Google and a stronger front camera for selfies. The deal appears time-sensitive, following patterns where similar discounts on other Galaxy models have quickly faded, unlike the newer A17 at about $200.

Samsung Galaxy S26 pricing shifts: base models up, Ultra cheaper, per Swedish data

January 29, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. According to WinFuture, Swedish dealer data show Samsung plans to raise the Galaxy S26 base price by about €100, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra would be roughly €100 cheaper than the previous Ultra. The base 256GB model is listed at SEK 11,990 in Sweden, representing a €100 increase over the 256GB S25, and Samsung is moving to a higher floor by dropping the lower-storage option. The Ultra already reflects a higher floor. The report notes regional price translation and suggests prices could influence demand toward the FE or older models. The shift comes amid RAM scarcity and AI memory demand. Samsung is also touted to add upgrades such as a Privacy display and refined cameras and battery, with pre-order perks under review.

DJI Osmo 360 II: FCC Listing, Arrival Window and Pricing

January 29, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. Thenewcamera.com reports the DJI Osmo 360 II (OQ002) has appeared in FCC records with ID 2ANDR-OQ0022512, EUT name OSMO 360 II, manufacturer SZ DJI Osmo Technology. Registration was filed December 9, 2025, clearing the device from the FCC Covered List. SGS testing, including 47 CFR Part 15.247, passed in November 2025, validating emissions, frequency stability and SAR for handheld use. The camera supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth with a dual-antenna MIMO system; an e-label is included. DJI is expected to launch in Q2 2026 (roughly March-May 2026), with price estimates for the base kit around $499-$579 and Adventure bundles $629-$729, plus regional equivalents of €509-€579 and £409-£469.

Apple acquires Israeli AI audio startup Q.ai, CEO Aviad Maizels confirms

January 29, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. Apple confirmed it has acquired Israeli AI audio startup Q.ai, but did not disclose a price. The company, led by Aviad Maizels, had remained largely secretive, with a focus on audio-related AI work. Q.ai was backed by GV (Google Ventures), Kleiner Perkins and Spark Capital, per PitchBook, and described as developing a communication enhancement technology. Maizels previously sold PrimeSense to Apple in 2013; PrimeSense tech later fed Apple's Face ID sensors starting in 2017. Apple's hardware chief Johny Srouji said the acquisition accelerates the roadmap. The move fits Apple's pattern of smaller, technology-specific buys and follows other AI-related moves, such as Apple's deal with Google to run Gemini-powered features across devices. AirPods have seen AI upgrades, including live translation and adaptive noise cancellation.

Tesla pivots to robotics and AI with $20 billion capex plan

January 29, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. Tesla plans to spend about $20 billion in 2026 to pivot from selling cars to robotics and driverless tech, after capex fell 24% in 2025 to $8.6 billion. Analysts at Canaccord Genuity called the shift a burn the ships inflection point, saying Forget the Tesla you knew. Tesla expects capex to more than double this year as it builds out Optimus humanoid robots and advances AI capabilities. Tesla's auto revenue declined 10% in 2025 as competition and model stagnation weighed on deliveries, while overall revenue fell for the first time on record. The company will convert Fremont lines from Model S/X production to robot manufacturing, and capex will fund six factories and related automation, with the aim of integrating robotics and AI into core operations.

AI-assisted breast cancer screening reduces later diagnoses by 12%, study finds

January 29, 2026, 11:02 PM EST. An international trial in Sweden tests artificial intelligence in routine mammography. Involving about 100,000 women, the study randomly assigned participants to AI-supported screening or to readings by two radiologists. The AI system triaged cases: low-risk images receive a single read, high-risk images go to double reading, and suspicious findings are highlighted for radiologists. Results, published in The Lancet, show cancer diagnoses in the years after screening fell by about 12% in the AI group (1.55 per 1,000) versus the control (1.76 per 1,000). The AI arm detected a larger share of cancers at screening (81% vs 74%), and there were roughly 27% fewer aggressive subtypes. Researchers caution that AI should augment, not replace, clinicians, and call for ongoing monitoring as programs scale up.

Apple posts record quarter as iPhone 17 demand surges

January 29, 2026, 11:00 PM EST. Apple posted a record quarter as iPhone 17 demand surged. For the fiscal 2026 first quarter (ended Dec. 27), revenue rose 16% to $143.8 billion, while EPS advanced 19% to $2.84. Analysts had expected about $138.5 billion in revenue and $2.67 per share. Cook called the results a remarkable quarter with unprecedented demand and all-time records across geographies, highlighted by a revival in China where the iPhone became the top-selling smartphone in Q4 and shipments rose 28%. iPhone revenue climbed 23% year over year. Services revenue also set a record at $30 billion, up 14%. Margins improved to 48.1% from 46.9%; Apple disclosed the Q.ai acquisition, valuation pegged near $2 billion.

Ukraine contacts SpaceX over Russian drones using Starlink, Kyiv says

January 29, 2026, 10:52 PM EST. Kyiv says it has contacted SpaceX after Russian drones were observed using Starlink satellite internet during attacks on Ukrainian cities. Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov credited SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk for a rapid response and proposed solutions. The Institute for the Study of War has said Russia is extending drone reach with Starlink terminals. Starlink, built by SpaceX, is widely used by Ukrainian forces for communications. Fedorov urged Western tech to support civilians, not be used for aggression. In a separate note, former President Donald Trump said he asked Vladimir Putin to pause attacks on Kyiv for a week amid freezing conditions; Moscow did not confirm. Peace talks are due to resume as Ukraine presses for concessions.

Apple posts best-ever quarter for iPhone revenue; services hits record

January 29, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. Apple reported its best-ever quarter for iPhone revenue, generating about $85.27 billion in the quarter ending December 27, 2025, though device sales figures were not disclosed. CEO Tim Cook called demand 'staggering' and described the iPhone lineup as the strongest ever. Revenue from Services rose 14% to just over $30 billion. Total company revenue reached nearly $143.76 billion, a quarterly high.

Nothing CEO says no flagship for 2026 as Phone (3) remains flagship; Phone (4a) aims for flagship-like experience

January 29, 2026, 10:46 PM EST. In a YouTube address, Nothing CEO Carl Pei confirms there will be no new flagship in 2026 and that the Phone (3) will continue as the company's flagship. A newer model in the (a) series is planned, with the Phone (4a) described as a complete evolution. Pei promises a flagship-like experience, premium materials, a bold new design with new colors, and upgrades to display, cameras, and overall performance. The Phone (4a) is expected to launch later this year after TDRA certification in the UAE. The update underscores Nothing's strategy to extend its product family without a traditional high-end release this year.

SpaceX Falcon 9 to launch 29 Starlink satellites from Florida's Space Coast tonight

January 29, 2026, 10:44 PM EST. Late-night launch from Florida's Space Coast. SpaceX plans to lift a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit just after 11 p.m. ET on Thursday, Jan. 29. The liftoff will come from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Weather and cloud cover will determine how far north or south the sightline travels; observers from Jacksonville Beach to West Palm Beach could get a view if conditions cooperate. After liftoff, boosters may be visible returning to beaches along the coast. Live coverage begins about 90 minutes before launch, via the USA TODAY Network's Space Team and floridatoday.com/space. Viewers are urged to watch from public beaches along the Space Coast and along the Indian River in Titusville, and to avoid blocking traffic.

US software stocks slide as SAP, ServiceNow results fuel AI disruption fears

January 29, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. US software shares fell after SAP flagged a weak cloud backlog and 2026 revenue outlook, while ServiceNow dropped after its results, fueling fears that AI disruption is eroding traditional SaaS models. SAP shed more than 16%; ServiceNow fell 11%. The sector has faced double-digit losses over the past year as investors weigh AI-enabled code and app generation against subscription software firms. JPMorgan analysts warned of a worst-case view where software is becoming obsolete. Salesforce, Adobe, and Datadog slid in tandem, and Microsoft retreated after saying it spent a record amount on AI yet posted slower cloud growth. Atlassian, Zscaler, Intuit, and HubSpot also declined. Software stocks led Nasdaq declines; the S&P 500 Software & Services index hit a nine-month low. AI-M&A activity continues as incumbents boost AI capabilities.

Meta gains on AI push as Microsoft slides on Azure slowdown

January 29, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. Meta Platforms rose after earnings as investors welcomed continued investment in AI, with shares up more than 8% and the company guiding for AI spend of $115-$135 billion this year, nearly double 2025. Meta's 24% year-over-year revenue growth, led by online ads, helped ease fears about its AI push. CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the effort a path to a 'personal super intelligence' and signaled new products this year, adding more than $176 billion to market value. In contrast, Microsoft fell about 10% after results showed Azure growth slowing to 39% from 40% and higher AI-driven spend. Quarterly capex/leases rose 66% to $37.5 billion as the company expands compute capacity, with CFO Amy Hood saying Azure could have grown 40% if GPU capacity had been redirected earlier. She also highlighted progress in first-party AI usage like GitHub Copilot.

Apple sees limited near-term margin impact from memory-chip price rise, eyes long-term options

January 29, 2026, 10:36 PM EST. Apple CEO Tim Cook told equity analysts that RAM and SSD prices in the supply chain are manageable. He said rising memory prices had a minimal impact on Apple's gross margin in the fourth quarter of the 2025 calendar year, but warned there could be a bit more impact in the current quarter. The company is aware of the trend and will look at a range of options to address it over the long term if necessary. Apple reported record revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% YoY, and maintained guidance for similar growth in the current quarter, with a gross margin target of 48%-49%. The remarks come as Apple navigates memory-cost volatility while pursuing gains across devices, services, and software platforms.

Snap forms 'Specs Inc' to insulate AR business ahead of glasses launch

January 29, 2026, 10:34 PM EST. Snap has created a wholly owned subsidiary, Specs Inc (AR, augmented reality), to oversee its AR glasses program and deepen partnerships while preserving capital flexibility ahead of a public launch later this year. The move comes as Snap faces a 2026 crucible moment, with Specs seen as essential to the company's hardware and software strategy. Snap says Specs Inc will not spin out Spectacles, but could attract targeted investment and insulate the core ad business from AR risk. AR hardware is capital intensive; Snap has spent about $3 billion over 11 years on its AR platform, far less than Meta. The sixth-gen Spectacles is expected this year, though details remain thin.

Apple buys Israeli AI startup Q.ai as AI race heats up

January 29, 2026, 10:32 PM EST. Apple has acquired Israeli AI startup Q.ai, a move aimed at sharpening its AI-enabled hardware edge, especially in audio. Reuters reported the deal, valued at nearly $2 billion, making it Apple's second-largest acquisition after Beats in 2014. Q.ai specializes in imaging and machine learning, including tech to interpret whispered speech and improve audio in noisy environments. The purchase follows Apple's expansion of AI features in AirPods, such as live translation introduced last year, and signals potential enhancements for the Vision Pro headset, including analysis of subtle facial muscle activity. Founders Avi Maizels and Yonatan Wexler, along with Avi Barliya, will join Apple. The deal comes ahead of Apple's quarterly earnings, with revenue estimates around $138 billion and expected strong iPhone growth.

Alphabet named top AI stock to buy with $1,000

January 29, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. Alphabet remains a core AI player, with a footprint across research, chip development and the Google Cloud Platform. Its Gemini large language models power an app with 650 million monthly active users, and AI features permeate core products like Search, YouTube and Gmail to boost user experience and ad outcomes. The stock trades at a forward P/E near 29, a multiple the piece deems reasonable given sustained double-digit earnings growth. The takeaway: Alphabet is the ultimate AI exposure for a $1,000 investment, thanks to a diversified, end-to-end AI platform rather than a single product winner.

Investors chase AI-led growth as Big Tech results test patience on AI spend

January 29, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Big tech earnings this week show investors are willing to overlook soaring AI spending if it drives solid growth, but quick to punish misses. Microsoft slid about 10% after its Azure cloud growth barely topped expectations and after disclosing that OpenAI accounts for 45% of its cloud backlog, raising concerns about concentration risk. Meta rose more than 9% on strong revenue from AI-enhanced ad targeting in the December quarter, supporting a rosy first-quarter forecast and signaling appetite for massive capital spending, projected to jump as much as 87% to about $135 billion this year. Analysts warn the market is weighing AI ambitions against Wall Street's tolerance for open-ended investment cycles, while Meta's pivot shapes the earnings narrative.

Nintendo limits image sharing in Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, drawing backlash

January 29, 2026, 10:12 PM EST. Nintendo says it is adding image sharing restrictions to Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream to keep experiences "welcoming and enjoyable for everyone." A post on the Nintendo America site explains that while the game invites humorous and unpredictable moments, some out-of-context scenes may be misunderstood. The company says the limits help keep worlds fun and safe, and that the approach reflects its ongoing philosophy of smiles for all players. On the Japanese site, the restrictions are spelled out: image transfer to smartphones, direct posting to social media, and automatic image uploads (Nintendo Switch 2 only) are unavailable, with sharing still possible via the Switch 2 Game Chat. Reactions online skew negative, with critics on ResetEra calling the move "wacky" and claiming Nintendo "killed the game."

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS updates to five years, adds security coverage

January 29, 2026, 10:04 PM EST. Google is extending support for the Pixel Tablet to five years of OS and security updates, a change spotted by 9to5Google that updates a support page to show longer software life and the potential for new features with Pixel Drops. Previously, OS updates were due to end in 2026 with security patches through 2028. The update broadens the update window for owners, though Google has not provided granular year-by-year milestones.

SpaceX weighs merger with Tesla or xAI, Bloomberg reports

January 29, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. SpaceX is weighing a potential merger with Tesla or an alternative combination with xAI, Bloomberg News reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The talks come as Tesla shares rose about 3% after hours following the Bloomberg report. Bloomberg also notes the discussions could precede a blockbuster public offering planned for later this year that would bring SpaceX's rockets, Starlink satellites, the X social network and Grok AI under one roof. Some investors are pushing the tie-up, and the firms have drawn interest from infrastructure funds and Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds. SpaceX and Tesla did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. Reuters previously reported on the potential IPO timing.

iPhone 17 lifts Apple as AI concerns persist; earnings beat

January 29, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. Apple sailed past Wall Street with the first full quarter of the iPhone 17, delivering a revenue of $143.8 billion and an iPhone take of $85.3 billion, topping estimates of $124.3B and $78.2B, respectively. The release helped offset AI concerns dogging the company, even as Tim Cook flagged a global memory shortage affecting data-center components and warned supply and demand may not balance soon. Apple also announced 2.5 billion devices in use and strong upgrades from switching customers to iPhone, with China revenue rising to $25.5B. A Google-powered AI strategy, including Siri updates, remains under wraps. Cook said AI opens opportunities across products and services, calling the partnership with Google a collaborative effort, not a bought-in solution.

Google Project Genie creates interactive AI-generated worlds from photos or prompts

January 29, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. Google is testing Project Genie, a research prototype that turns a photo or prompt into interactive AI-generated worlds. Users can remix pre-built environments with new characters and visual styles, and the exploration video can be downloaded. Sessions are capped at 60 seconds, and there is some input lag, with the promotable events feature not yet available. While Genie aims to model physics, testers are likely to see worlds that look or behave imperfectly, and content restrictions may shift. The Verge found early prompts to imitate Nintendo titles, though some prompts later blocked due to third-party content providers. Access is restricted to a dedicated web app via the AI Ultra plan at $250/month; Google intends to broaden access over time, but Genie remains an experiment.

Apple posts biggest sales jump in four years as iPhone 17 fuels demand

January 29, 2026, 9:48 PM EST. Apple reports fiscal first-quarter revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% from a year earlier, driven by iPhone 17 demand. Tim Cook told FOX Business the results were staggering, with record performance in North America and China. Tariff costs ran largely in line with Apple's guided $1.4 billion quarterly figure. On AI, Cook said Apple is open to acquisitions and not tied to a single size. The company disclosed the purchase of Israeli AI audio firm Q.ai, and said Siri will run on Google's Gemini later this year, a move Cook framed as a collaboration. He also noted ongoing succession planning for Apple's leadership and a focus on future leadership.

Microsoft stock plunges as Wall Street questions AI investments

January 29, 2026, 9:38 PM EST. Microsoft shares fell about 12% on Thursday, intensifying a software sector sell-off as investors question the payoff from heavy AI spending. The decline wipes roughly $400 billion in market value. Microsoft posted slower Azure growth, with capex up 66% year over year to $37.5 billion in the latest quarter. Azure is forecast to grow 37%-38% in Q1, after a slowdown in late 2025 tied partly to AI-chip capacity limits. Analysts warned investors want faster monetisation of cloud and AI, not more buildout. OpenAI, a major Microsoft stake, accounts for about 45% of the cloud backlog, fueling concerns that a large portion of OpenAI's roughly $280 billion backlog could be at risk as the startup seeks to regain momentum. The Information reported Microsoft may invest around $10 billion in OpenAI.

Windows 11 reaches 1 billion users faster than Windows 10

January 29, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. Microsoft said Windows 11 reached 1 billion users in the latest holiday quarter, faster than Windows 10 did nearly six years earlier. CEO Satya Nadella described the number as up more than 45% year over year on the fiscal Q2 2026 earnings call. The pace comes as support for Windows 10 winds down, lifting Windows OEM revenues, according to the company. Pavan Davuluri, Windows chief, said at Microsoft Ignite on November 19 that nearly a billion people were running Windows 11. In calendar terms, the milestone arrived in 1,576 days for Windows 11 versus 1,706 days for Windows 10, a timeline shifted after Windows Phone's cancellation.

Tesla posts pandemic-era low annual profit as rival overtakes and pivots to AI

January 29, 2026, 9:20 PM EST. Tesla's net income for last year fell 46% to $3.8 billion, the lowest since the pandemic. The company ceded the title of world's biggest EV maker to a Chinese rival, as boycotts and soft demand weighed on sales. The results come despite cheaper models and Musk's pledge to stay focused after a foray into politics. Investors have kept faith-the stock is up about 9% over the past year. On a conference call, Musk signaled a shift to an AI future, announcing the closure of Model S and Model X production in Q2 and a Fremont factory conversion to produce Optimus robots.

Napster Relaunched as AI Music Platform, Frames Fans as Co-Creators

January 29, 2026, 9:18 PM EST. Napster is relaunching as a platform for AI music and podcasts, inviting users to move from passive listening to co-creating with AI. The new CEO, John Acunto, says the service aims to break boundaries and empower fans to shape soundtracks in real time. Available on mobile and web, the platform competes with apps like Suno by letting users generate music and podcasts. A test session featured a chatbot named "Nia Jenkins," producing a track about "AI slop." The review notes microphone access and asks about what data the chatbot is trained on, suggesting training on copyrighted material. The piece frames Napster's journey as a return to its disruptive roots, though critics find the offering hollow.

YouTube cracks down on AI slop as top channels shut down

January 29, 2026, 9:14 PM EST. YouTube has begun removing AI-generated short-form clips it labels slop. The action follows a Kapwing analysis cited by Android Police, which found 16 of the top 100 AI-focused channels from a broad publisher list no longer exist or have had videos removed. Among those affected were CuentosFacianantes (5.95 million subscribers), Imperio de Jesus (5.87 million) and Super Cat League (4.21 million). Collectively, the channels registered about 35 million subscribers and more than 4.7 billion views. The moves reflect a broader push to curb low-quality AI content while preserving creator tools. CEO Neal Mohan outlined a 2026 vision, saying AI will be a boon to creatives and a tool for expression.

Apple posts record quarter on strong iPhone demand

January 29, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Apple reported its fiscal 2026 first quarter revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% year over year, and EPS of $2.84, up 19%. The iPhone generated a record $85.3 billion in revenue as demand was described as unprecedented by CEO Tim Cook. Greater China revenue jumped 38% to $25.53 billion amid a rebound after a slowdown. The Services business rose 14% to $30.0 billion, reinforcing a model that turns hardware cycles into recurring income. Gross margin came in at 48.2%, beating guidance despite higher component costs. Traders reacted modestly, with the stock up about 1.8% in after-hours trading, reflecting confidence with some limits.

SpaceX eyes 2026 IPO as secondaries roar and banks circle

January 29, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. SpaceX is lining up four major Wall Street banks for a 2026 IPO, sources say, amid blistering demand in the secondary market. The company recently completed a tender offer valuing it at about $800 billion and has investors eyeing a potential $1.5 trillion IPO tag if the stock comes to market. A listing could trigger an IPO cascade for other late-stage unicorns such as OpenAI, Stripe and Databricks. The chatter comes as SpaceX balances ambitious lunar and Mars ambitions with scrutiny over its pace of development. Market participants expect a faster path to liquidity for employees via secondaries ahead of a public debut, with bankers arguing the IPO market needs a reset.

Rogbid Fusion: $50 hybrid smart ring doubles as a wellness tracker and wristwatch

January 29, 2026, 9:06 PM EST. Rogbid launches the Fusion, a hybrid smart ring that also doubles as a smartwatch, priced at $50. The ring uses a metal frame and a 0.49-inch OLED screen on the crown to show steps, heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep data. It can log about 100 exercises and is waterproof up to 50 meters. An adjustable Milanese loop fits a range of finger sizes, and an extended strap can convert the ring into a wristwatch. Novel features include a prayer time reminder and a couple interaction mode to share moments and plan walks. The accompanying mobile app offers deeper biometrics and AI-driven sleep guidance. Rogbid sells the Fusion on its website in black, silver, and gold.

BEYA STEM Conference hits 40th anniversary with focus on AI, cybersecurity and quantum computing

January 29, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. BEYA STEM Conference returns to Baltimore Feb. 12-14 to mark its 40th anniversary, offering workforce development and job fairs for students, professionals and leaders in STEM. The event will host in-person and digital attendees through a new digital twin experience. Tyrone Taborn, founder and CEO of Career Communications Group, says the program has narrowed its focus to three growth areas: AI, quantum computing and cybersecurity, with an emphasis on certification and practical training. The conference honors a Black Engineer of the Year Award and continues despite shifts after last year's withdrawal of some military branches from the career fair. CCG reported a loss exceeding $3 million in 2025, prompting talks of staff reductions.

ESA's MTG-S1 captures first infrared sounder images from geostationary weather satellite

January 29, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. ESA's Meteosat Third Generation-Sounder 1 (MTG-S1) has produced the first infrared-sounding images from a geostationary weather satellite, revealing atmospheric details over Europe and North Africa. Launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in July, MTG-S1 uses infrared sounding to measure temperature, humidity, wind and trace gases across 1,700 narrow wavelength bands. In a fixed orbit about the equator some 22,000 miles (35,400 km) up, the instrument now provides data every 30 minutes. ESA officials say the capability, the first of its kind in geostationary orbit, could reshape forecasts of severe storms and enable 3D atmospheric maps. The November 15 images show humidity concentration and surface and cloud-top temperatures, highlighting MTG-S1's potential to improve weather prediction.

Quantum computing advances cryptographic algorithms; researchers chart post-quantum security

January 29, 2026, 8:30 PM EST. Researchers Darlan Noetzold and Valderi Reis Quietinho Leithardt, with colleagues, deliver a comprehensive doctoral guide to post-quantum cryptography. They map foundational concepts, the quantum threat-emphasizing Shor's algorithm-and a spectrum of future-proof schemes. The study catalogues lattice-based, code-based, hash-based, multivariate, and isogeny-based approaches and situates them in the ongoing NIST standardisation process. It combines theory with practice, offering detailed tutorials and methodologies for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) protocols, including BB84, E91, and newer variants like MDI-QKD and Twin-Field QKD. The authors compare cryptographic options, discuss hybrid approaches and emerging trends, and outline a practical roadmap for students, researchers, and professionals navigating a quantum-threatened security landscape. The work draws on leading conferences and ends with future research opportunities and use cases for a secure, interconnected world.

SpaceX launches Falcon 9 from Vandenberg with 25 Starlink satellites; booster lands on droneship

January 29, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Thursday at 9:53 a.m. local time, sending 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East. The mission marked the 19th flight for the first-stage booster, which previously supported USSF-62, OneWeb Launch 20, NROL-145 and 16 other Starlink missions. After stage separation, the booster landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship in the Pacific. Officials noted that residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties might have heard sonic booms depending on weather conditions. A video feed of the launch was shared by SpaceX.

Microsoft deploys Maia 200 AI chips as it pledges to keep buying Nvidia, AMD chips

January 29, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. Microsoft says it has rolled out the first batch of its self-designed Maia 200 AI chips in a data center, with more deployments planned. The chip is described as an AI inference powerhouse tuned for running production models, and Microsoft claims Maia 200 delivers faster processing than Amazon's Trainium and Google's TPU. Despite building its own hardware, CEO Satya Nadella said Microsoft will continue buying chips from Nvidia and AMD, stressing that vertical integration does not exclude third-party wares. Maia 200 will power Microsoft's Superintelligence team's frontier-model work and will also support OpenAI models running on Azure. Access to cutting-edge AI hardware remains tight for customers and internal teams. Mustafa Suleyman, who leads the team, called Maia 200 a milestone.

Apple AI plans eyed as Siri reboot via Gemini draws investor attention ahead of Q1 results

January 29, 2026, 8:20 PM EST. Apple will report first-quarter results after the market close, with investors watching its AI roadmap. The company has shown steady growth as iPhone sales stay strong, while concern grows that Apple could lag in artificial intelligence. To ease those fears, Apple said Siri will be rebooted with Google's Gemini AI models (Google's suite of foundation models). Analysts, per Bloomberg consensus, expect $2.68 a share on $138.4 billion in revenue, up from $124.3 billion a year earlier. It remains Apple's seasonally largest quarter after the holidays. In the prior quarter, Apple posted $102.5 billion in revenue and briefly hit a $4 trillion market value. The stock, after a December peak, is about 10% lower. China's smartphone demand keeps pressure on results; a folding iPhone is widely rumored for 2026.

Tesla to invest $2 billion in Elon Musk's xAI, deepening AI ties

January 29, 2026, 8:08 PM EST. Tesla disclosed in a shareholder letter on Wednesday that it has invested $2 billion in Elon Musk's AI startup xAI, the company behind the Grok chatbot and owner of X. The investment follows xAI's $20 billion Series E funding announced three weeks earlier. Other disclosed investors include Valor Equity Partners, Fidelity, Qatar Investment Authority, as well as strategic backers Nvidia and Cisco. Tesla's move drew scrutiny because a 2023 shareholder vote on approving an investment in xAI was effectively rejected due to abstentions. Tesla argues the deal aligns with its Master Plan Part IV to blend AI with the physical world, noting a framework agreement to evaluate collaborations and existing ties such as Megapack power for xAI data centers and Grok's integration in some vehicles. Musk said collaborations could accelerate progress.

Rigetti Computing Stock Up 2,400% Since 2023, But Three Risks Loom

January 29, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. Rigetti Computing has surged more than 2,400% since January 2023, but skeptics urge caution. The company has almost no sales, reporting about $1.9 million in Q1 revenue-down 18% year over year-and a GAAP net loss of about $201 million in Q3. CEO Subodh Kulkarni says commercial sales may not materialize until at least three to five years, after achieving Narrow Quantum Advantage. Shares trade at about a P/S ratio near 824, far above the tech average of around 9, implying an expensive valuation without fast revenue growth. The broader space-quantum computing-remains speculative, with even major players like Alphabet making only incremental progress. Investors face a long wait for meaningful revenue and uncertain timelines.

Apple acquires Israeli audio AI startup Q.ai

January 29, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Apple has acquired Q.ai, an Israeli AI startup focused on audio processing. Terms were not disclosed; reports from the Financial Times pegged the deal near $2 billion, a figure Reuters could not independently verify. Q.ai has explored machine-learning methods to help devices understand whispered speech and improve audio in challenging environments. The company last year filed a patent to use facial skin micromovements to detect words, identify individuals, and gauge emotions and vital signs. About 100 employees, including CEO Aviad Maizels and co-founders Yonatan Wexler and Avi Barliya, will join Apple. Maizels previously built PrimeSense, a 3D sensing firm Apple bought in 2013, a move tied to facial recognition. Apple declined to discuss use cases, but the deal follows AI features in AirPods.

NVIDIA at 41x forward earnings sparks buy, hold or cash-out debate

January 29, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. NVIDIA trades at a forward P/E of 41.07, above the industry average of 28.99 for Semiconductor – General. The stretched multiple raises volatility if growth slows. Despite headwinds from US-China tensions and competition from INTC and AMD, the market has not cooled the stock, signaling confidence in its growth trajectory. Tensions are easing: China has authorized purchases of NVIDIA's H200 AI chips, and approvals for ByteDance and Alibaba total roughly $10 billion. The Trump administration has authorized H200 shipments to China. Global data-center capex is seen at $3-4 trillion annually by 2030, underpinning demand for computing hardware and Blackwell GPUs. NVIDIA targets about $65 billion in Q4 2026 revenue (±2%), after $57 billion in Q3 2026 (+62% YoY, +22% QoQ). Net margin at 53%, above the industry 49.34%.

Explainer: Why Elon Musk wants AI data centers in space

January 29, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Reuters explains that space-based AI data centers would rely on hundreds of solar-powered satellites to run workloads for models like xAI's Grok or OpenAI's ChatGPT, hoping to reduce cooling and energy costs but facing debris, radiation, maintenance, and launch risks. Deutsche Bank views the first small orbital deployments in 2027-28 as tests of technology and economics, with broader constellations in the 2030s if they succeed. Musk argues the space frontier offers the lowest-cost AI hosting, a view he reiterated at Davos as SpaceX considers an IPO that could exceed $1 trillion. Competitors include Blue Origin and Starcloud with an Nvidia H100 in orbit. Still, analysts say commercial viability remains years away, contingent on cost, reliability, and on-orbit maintenance.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus hits 46% discount at Best Buy

January 29, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. Best Buy is offering the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet for under $65, a deal that equates to about 46% off its regular price. The listing targets casual tablet users, presenting the device as a solid, low-cost option for basic entertainment and light tasks. Dated January 27, 2026, the deal sits in the tablet category and highlights price leadership for entry-level devices.

SpinQ pushes quantum computing into STEM classrooms to build a quantum-literate workforce

January 29, 2026, 7:38 PM EST. SpinQ is steering quantum computing into STEM classrooms to close a growing talent gap as industries adopt quantum power. The effort moves learning from theory to hands-on exploration of core ideas such as superposition and entanglement using affordable, portable hardware. SpinQ's Gemini Mini, Triangulum and GeminiLab miniatures offer 2 to 2+ qubits, backed by the SpinQit software and cloud platforms for classroom use. The company notes that traditional quantum labs were out of reach for most schools, and its approach democratizes access while boosting student employability. With education starting in 2026, this trend reflects a broader push to embed quantum literacy in STEM curricula, making real-world quantum concepts tangible now, not later.

SpaceX and xAI weigh merger as Musk eyes SpaceX IPO, sources say

January 29, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. SpaceX and xAI are reportedly weighing a merger that would fold SpaceX's rocket business, Starlink satellite Internet unit, and the xAI arm behind X and the Grok chatbot into a single umbrella. Reuters cited anonymous sources and filings in reporting talks ahead of a SpaceX IPO later this year. A potential tie-up could support the plan to use Starship for orbital AI data centers, leveraging solar energy and addressing earthly data-center constraints, according to experts. The move would align Musk's tech empire and could influence Starlink's role in data services. SpaceX and xAI did not comment.

US tech stocks slide as Microsoft's AI spending unnerves investors

January 29, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. US tech shares fell after Microsoft signaled higher AI spending, unnerving investors. The move raised questions about near-term margins and capital allocation. The Nasdaq edged lower as big-cap tech names sensitive to AI news led declines. Analysts cautioned that sustained AI outlays could weigh on short-term results even as they expect longer-term growth. Traders rotated into lower-risk assets as a precaution, while others awaited clarity on monetization timelines and cost controls from AI initiatives. Management commentary and company guidance on AI revenue potential will keep investors focused in coming sessions.

Apple launches Creator Studio in new all-in-one subscription

January 29, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. Apple launches Apple Creator Studio, an all-in-one subscription that bundles major apps for creators. The service goes live this week, with a rollout noted for Wednesday, January 28. It includes Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro, Motion, Compressor, and MainStage. U.S. pricing is $12.99 per month or $129 per year. Subscribers gain access to intelligent features and other premium tools, the company says. Apple frames the move as a one-stop suite for video, audio, and design workflows, simplifying licensing for pros and students. The launch underscores a broader push into subscription bundles in its software ecosystem.

Apple results eyed after the bell as AI strategy and iPhone cycle take center stage

January 29, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. Investors await Apple's fiscal first-quarter results after the bell, watching for how its AI strategy and iPhone cycle shape margins. Street consensus from LSEG points to about $2.67 in EPS on roughly $138.5 billion in revenue, with the prior quarter at $1.85 and $102.5 billion. Apple has lagged peers on AI investment and faces pressure from higher memory costs, even after a multiyear Gemini partnership to power Siri. Delays to Siri upgrades into 2026 have tempered enthusiasm. In notes to clients, Morgan Stanley's Erik Woodring and Bank of America's Wamsi Mohan warn near-term risks but see long-term catalysts, including a fall iPhone launch and renewed AI/Siri momentum, plus potential future devices in 2026.

Intel gains on Nvidia and Apple foundry talks as markets drift

January 29, 2026, 7:20 PM EST. Intel shares rose on reports of potential Nvidia and Apple foundry deals and ongoing insider buying, offering a glimmer of relief after a rough stretch. Traders weighed the possibility that some 2028 chip production could move to Intel, though high-end nodes would stay with TSMC. In the broader market, the S&P 500 was near flat while the Nasdaq rose. Analysts cited today's headlines and a CEO stock purchase as supporting catalysts, alongside a higher price target. Yet investors remain mindful of Intel's GAAP loss in Q4 2025 and ongoing supply constraints. Trading volume spiked, underscoring active interest in Intel's foundry ambitions despite a still-challenging outlook.

Samsung Galaxy S26 to feature 'pixel-level' privacy tools, Samsung confirms

January 29, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Samsung says it is developing privacy features that operate at a pixel-level for Galaxy phones, disclosed in a vague blog post. The description implies new security functions, but no firm date was given. Mashable reports the reveal could come at the next Galaxy Unpacked in late February, when the Galaxy S26 lineup is expected to debut alongside the promised privacy shield. The post leaves details thin and does not specify which apps or data would be protected. Analysts expect a formal reveal at Unpacked, with Samsung framing the feature as a core privacy upgrade for future Galaxy devices.

Samsung Galaxy S26 to get pixel-level privacy feature, Samsung confirms

January 29, 2026, 7:16 PM EST. Samsung has signaled a new privacy feature for its next Galaxy phones, describing it as working at a pixel level. The company posted a vague blog update and did not provide a hard date for unveiling the technology. Observers expect the reveal at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, potentially in late February, when the Galaxy S26 lineup is due to debut. The feature, described as a privacy shield that operates at a per-pixel level, aims to add security without sacrificing performance. Samsung has not offered technical details, but the move fits a broader push toward on-device privacy controls in flagship devices.

Apple earnings preview: AI push, memory costs in focus as iPhone growth looms

January 29, 2026, 7:14 PM EST. Apple is set to report fiscal first-quarter earnings after the bell, with Wall Street looking for an EPS of $2.67 on revenue of $138.48 billion (LSEG). The December quarter, framed around a strong iPhone 17 cycle, is expected to show double-digit growth for iPhone and overall revenue of roughly 10%-12%. Shares have slid about 11% from December highs ahead of results. Analysts will press on operating costs and the cost of components like memory and storage, a pressure point as AI demand tightens supply. CFO Kevan Parekh has downplayed memory cost risk, while Morgan Stanley's Erik Woodring says the Street hasn't fully priced margin headwinds. Tim Cook may be asked about Apple Intelligence with Gemini and a Siri relaunch. Some analysts warn AI monetization remains uncertain and rising memory prices could complicate margins.

Intel climbs on Nvidia, Apple foundry talks and AI optimism

January 29, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Intel shares rose after reports that Nvidia and Apple may shift some 2028 chip production to Intel's foundry network, a potential win for its strategy to diversify beyond in-house design. Investors weigh the upside against lingering concerns about the firm's GAAP loss in Q4 2025 and ongoing supply constraints. Volume surged versus the three-month average as market sentiment remained choppy and peers like Nvidia and AMD advanced modestly while the broader index wavered. Analysts say any increase in Intel's foundry work could bolster its plan to become a credible alternative to TSMC for device makers. News of insider buying and a higher price target added to the day's mood, but caution remains amid the sector's volatility.

CoreWeave quietly expands AI-focused cloud as backlog climbs and debt rises

January 29, 2026, 7:06 PM EST. CoreWeave is building an AI-focused cloud amid stiff competition from AWS and other hyperscalers. With a market cap around $46 billion, it remains smaller but expands a backlog that topped $55 billion at the end of Q3 2025, up from about $30 billion three months earlier. Nvidia supplies its AI accelerators, and Microsoft has signed a multibillion-dollar deal to run processing for Azure's AI models. CoreWeave's revenue for the first nine months of 2025 reached nearly $3.6 billion, up 204% year over year, while operating expenses rose 267% as it invests in infrastructure. Debt exceeded $14 billion as of Q3, with interest rates between 9% and 15%. It raised $2.2 billion via convertible notes at 1.75%, convertible to stock at $215.60 per share through 2031.

SpaceX weighs $1.5 trillion IPO valuation, FT reports

January 29, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. People familiar with the matter told the Financial Times that SpaceX is weighing an IPO as soon as mid-June 2026 at a valuation near $1.5 trillion, with up to $50 billion in proceeds. The plan would surpass Aramco's 2019 flotation as the largest on record. Bret Johnsen, SpaceX's chief financial officer, has been meeting private investors since December as preparations continue. The company was last valued at about $800 billion in a December 2025 secondary sale. The higher figure reflects Starlink's cash generation and ongoing Starship development, along with stronger investor appetite for large-scale space, AI, and infrastructure assets. SpaceX also invested $2 billion in xAI last year, a venture Musk has said could attract Tesla investment.

ZDNet explains its deal-rating system and editor badges to help readers save on tech

January 29, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. ZDNet outlines how it identifies and presents tech deals. The site says it uses a percentage-off-based framework to classify savings, paired with a sliding-scale assessment of each deal's credibility-driven by brand recognition, deal frequency, and reviewer input. Editor's deal rating badges accompany most selections to signal expertise and reliability. The system aims to translate complex discounts into clear, actionable savings for readers. In a refreshed approach last year, ZDNet says it refined the method to consistently share value with shoppers, noting that handcrafted deals are chosen to reflect reader interests. The piece also explains how deals are rated and how readers should interpret badges when choosing purchases.

ZDNET touts deal-rating system as it covers T-Mobile 5G Home Internet promo

January 29, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. ZDNET says its deal coverage rests on a transparent, editor-rated system designed to guide readers to savings. The outlet cites 33 years of experience, 30 hands-on reviewers and a 10,000-square-foot lab to back its assessments. At the core is a percentage-off-based framework that classifies savings, paired with a sliding-scale evaluator that weighs factors such as reviewer expertise, frequency and brand recognition. Editor's deal rating badges adorn most content to signal credibility and help readers gauge value. The piece describes how those ratings translate into handcrafted deals chosen for ZDNET readers, fully backed by editorial staff. It also notes ongoing refinements to improve interpretation of offers, including promotions like a T-Mobile 5G Home Internet deal.

SpaceX weighs $1.5 trillion IPO as Starlink cashflow and Starship progress lift valuation

January 29, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. SpaceX is weighing an IPO as early as mid-June 2026, with talks circulating a valuation around $1.5 trillion and potential proceeds up to $50 billion, according to people familiar with the matter cited by the Financial Times. The figure would topple Aramco's 2019 listing as the largest ever. CFO Bret Johnsen has been meeting private investors since December amid preparations. SpaceX last valued at about $800 billion in December 2025 private sale. Growth in Starlink revenue and ongoing Starship development underpin renewed investor interest and appetite for large-scale space, AI, and infrastructure assets after a sluggish IPO market. Musk also backed xAI with a $2 billion investment last year, which has since merged with X, and has signaled Tesla involvement.

Apple set to report earnings as iPhone cycle, AI strategy and memory costs take center stage

January 29, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Apple is due to report fiscal first-quarter results after the bell, with consensus calling for EPS of $2.67 and revenue around $138.5 billion. The quarter covers December and holiday demand for iPhone, which Apple signaled would grow in double digits. The stock has fallen about 11% from a December high as investors weigh rising memory and storage costs and other operating expenses tied to an AI-driven cycle. CFO Kevan Parekh has downplayed the memory headwind, saying it's not a major margin issue yet. Morgan Stanley's Erik Woodring argues the Street hasn't fully priced higher memory costs into FY26, while Jeffries notes AI commercialization remains challenging. Tim Cook will face questions on AI strategy, including Google's Gemini for Apple Intelligence and the upcoming Siri update, keeping the focus on the iPhone cycle and margins.

Nadella defends Copilot usage as Microsoft doubles down on AI investment after earnings

January 29, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Microsoft posted 81.3 billion in revenue for the quarter, up 17%, with cloud revenue topping 50 billion, but shares fell as investors questioned AI-spending returns. CEO Satya Nadella argued the AI push is accelerating across products, noting large capex this year to support AI work with OpenAI and others. He highlighted growth in consumer Copilot usage, saying daily users had grown nearly 3x year over year, though he did not disclose a total. GitHub Copilot now has 4.7 million paid subscribers, up 75% from a year earlier, and Microsoft 365 Copilot has 15 million paid seats from a base of 450 million. Analysts warned about Azure and M365 growth despite the upbeat tone.

Anthropic engineer says he hasn't written any code in over two months as AI coding spreads

January 29, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. At Anthropic, engineers say most code is now written by AI. Boris Cherny, head of Claude Code and Opus 4.5, posted on X that 100% of his code is written by Claude and that the rest of the company is 'pretty much 100% AI-generated.' He said he shipped 22 PRs yesterday and 27 the day before, all 100% written by Claude. CEO Dario Amodei echoed the idea at the World Economic Forum in Davos, noting some engineers rely on AI to generate code while they edit. Others-like the OpenAI researcher behind the pseudonymous X account Roon-said they no longer write code. Analysts say the shift is reshaping software development; Claude Code's emergence has triggered a broader industry shift.

Tesla sells $430 million of Megapacks to xAI in 2025; 3.4% of energy revenue

January 29, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. Tesla said in its annual filing that it sold about $430 million worth of its Megapacks to xAI in 2025, about 3.4% of its energy business revenue. The energy unit climbed 27% to $12.8 billion, while auto revenue fell about 3% to $69.5 billion as the company contends with a weaker brand and an aging lineup. Musk's OpenAI rival xAI has used Megapacks to power its Colossus data center near Memphis and has raised funds from Nvidia and Cisco. The deal underscores a growing role for energy storage in Tesla's business mix amid ongoing questions about xAI and broader funding activity.

Four ways to repurpose your old smartwatch instead of throwing it away

January 29, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. Old smartwatches can be repurposed rather than discarded. Many models still function as standalone mini-computers with offline music, health sensors, apps, and even cellular connectivity. One common use is as a dedicated music player: download offline playlists to 8-16GB of onboard storage and pair with Bluetooth headphones, freeing you from carrying a phone on runs. For health, most watches monitor heart rate, and some add blood oxygen, EKG, and even BP. With cellular models, the device can operate without a phone, running apps and delivering basic notifications. A fourth angle is treating the watch as a compact coach and quick-task device for workouts, reminders and more, giving life to a gadget that might otherwise sit in a drawer.

Repurpose old smartwatches as standalone music players and health trackers

January 29, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Many old smartwatches can live a second life as standalone devices. The article points out that some models still have cellular connections, enough processing power to run apps, and 8-16GB of onboard storage for offline use. One use: a dedicated music player. Load offline playlists and pair with Bluetooth earbuds for phone-free workouts. Another use: health monitoring. Most wearables include heart-rate sensors, with some offering blood oxygen, EKG, or even blood-pressure metrics, making it easy to check vitals from a bedside shelf or kitchen counter. The piece emphasizes how simple it is to repurpose a watch rather than store it. It suggests keeping a charged unit in the medicine cabinet or gym bag for quick checks or lightweight tracking.

Microsoft's Nadella touts Copilot usage as AI spend weighs on stock

January 29, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Microsoft delivered solid earnings: revenue of $81.3 billion (up 17%) and cloud revenue above $50 billion, but the stock fell as investors questioned AI-spending intensity. CEO Satya Nadella defended the plan, saying cloud and AI investments will drive future profits, even as Azure and Microsoft 365 growth disappointed. Capital expenditures for the first half approached last year's full total, with $72.4 billion spent so far this year after $88.2 billion in the prior year. Nadella cited traction for Copilot products: consumer Copilot usage up nearly 3x year over year, 4.7 million paid GitHub Copilot subscribers (up 75%), and 15 million paid seats for Microsoft 365 Copilot from a 450 million base. Last year, Copilot logged over 100 million monthly active users across commercial and consumer segments.

Leak hints Galaxy S26 Ultra may lack built-in magnets for Qi2 charging

January 29, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. New leak from Sammobile shows a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra wireless charger packaging bearing the Qi2 25W logo. The label confirms the charger supports the current Qi2 standard and up to 25W wireless charging for compatible devices, including the iPhone 17; Samsung's Galaxy S25 is thought to be limited to 15W by the phone, not the charger. The packaging also states Samsung devices require a Qi2-compatible protective case with magnets to use the charger. That could mean the Galaxy S26 may lack built-in magnets, usable only with magnetic accessories or Qi2 chargers when paired with a case. Early rumors expect magnetic cases across the S26 lineup; without magnets, full Qi2 support among Android phones could stay limited beyond the HMD Skyline.

US declassifies Cold War-era JUMPSEAT spy satellites

January 29, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. On Jan. 28, the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office declassified the JUMPSEAT spy satellite program. Eight satellites reached a highly elliptical orbit between 1971 and 1987, with the Molniya-style trajectory designed to linger over high latitudes for intelligence gathering. The program emerged from a U.S. Air Force-backed effort dubbed Project EARPOP, part of a broader shift from low Earth orbit surveillance to spaceborne signals intelligence. In orbit, JUMPSEAT collected electronic emissions and communications data intended to reveal adversaries' weapon development, then downlinked it to U.S. ground facilities. The first launch occurred at Vandenberg in 1971; the final craft followed in 1987, and the series remained in service in transponder mode until 2006. The release highlights a pivotal vantage point in Cold War intelligence.

Nvidia Eyes Intel Foundry for 2028 Feynman GPUs

January 29, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. DigiTimes reports Nvidia plans to tap Intel's foundry for some manufacturing and advanced packaging needs for its future Feynman GPUs starting in 2028. The GPU compute die would remain with TSMC; Nvidia would use the Intel 18A process, or the upcoming 14A, for portions of the I/O die-subject to yield improvements. Intel would also handle part of the packaging, with EMIB used on up to about 25% of chips; the rest would go to TSMC's CoWoS packaging. The move would diversify Nvidia's supply chain and could boost Intel's foundry business if validated. On the Q4 call, CFO David Zinsner said advanced packaging opportunities could exceed $1 billion and may be multi-billion dollars with multiple customers, suggesting a broader opportunity. This remains unconfirmed rumor, aligned with Intel leadership comments.

AI reshapes the global landscape as Rubenstein hosts Schmidt and Ucuzoglu

January 29, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. AI is reshaping the global landscape, a theme at a Davos fireside chat moderated by David Rubenstein with Eric Schmidt and Joe Ucuzoglu. The panel framed the "rewiring" of the economy around leadership and deployment of AI. Schmidt described Google's early AI work to improve ad-system performance and said his collaboration with Henry Kissinger stemmed from concerns about AI's impact on the human mind. On the next wave, he urged investors to back agentic AI: build an agent to do something, and competition among agents will yield standout companies in the near term. He quantified impact in the U.S., noting AI contributes more than 1% of GDP via data-center buildouts, a trend tied to his new data-center venture. The thread: practical use, governance, and speed to value.

Tesla stock in focus ahead of Jan. 28 earnings as AI hype meets delivery data

January 29, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. Tesla reports fourth-quarter earnings on Jan. 28. The name is under the spotlight as investors chase AI-driven narratives. Musk remains a magnet for sentiment even as actions lag promises. Last year, Tesla stock rose about 11.4%, lagging the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite. On Dec. 29, the company previewed a Wall Street consensus for Q4 deliveries of 422,850 and 1,640,752 for the full year. Four days later, actual deliveries came in at 418,227 and 1,636,129, missing the tally. With EV sales still the core revenue driver, a shrinking market share raises questions about the outlook. Through Jan. 12, the stock sits roughly breakeven for 2026, with volatility ahead of earnings. The robotaxi strategy and AI push remain central to the bull case, even as near-term momentum wobbles.

AI's impact on engineering jobs may be different from initial projections

January 29, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. AI will automate many repetitive, data-intensive tasks in chip design, trimming entry-level roles. Yet today's engineering students trained on the latest tools could join the workforce at higher levels, a view supported by Alexander Petr of Keysight EDA. AI acts as a force multiplier, accelerating the learning curve for junior engineers, while domain expertise and critical thinking remain essential for sanity checks. There are two camps: enhance the existing workflow with AI, or reinvent the workflow entirely. Culture and resistance to change shape adoption. Senior engineers who know the bottom-to-top toolchain matter, but so do those with the big picture and project organization experience. As toolmakers evolve, AI may unlock capabilities beyond traditional methods.

AI May Elevate Entry-Level Engineers Amid Mixed Job Outlook

January 29, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. AI is likely to automate repetitive tasks in chip design, potentially trimming entry-level roles. But it could also allow today's students to enter the workforce at more senior levels as they train with the latest tools. AI acts as a force multiplier, accelerating junior engineers' learning while still demanding domain expertise, critical thinking, and rigorous checks. Experts describe two schools of thought: integrate AI within an existing workflow or redesign the workflow around AI, with debate over culture, resistance, and retooling. Seniority matters too: one path values deep familiarity with bottom-level tools, the other emphasizes broader project oversight where experience guides big-picture decisions. Automation won't replace human judgment in complex engineering tasks.

DJI RS 5 gimbal debuts with Z-axis stabilization, up to 3 kg payload, one-hour fast charge

January 29, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. DJI on Tuesday unveiled the RS 5 gimbal stabilizer, adding Z-axis vertical stabilization to a lighter frame that still supports up to 2.97 kg (6.6 lb) of camera payload. Weighing about 1.46 kg with the battery grip, it can power standard rigs for roughly 14 hours and charges fully in about an hour with a 65W PD charger. Key upgrades include a 5th-generation RS Stabilization Algorithm, delivering 50% higher peak motor torque for improved stability in fast motion and vertical shooting. An Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module frames and tracks subjects from the gimbal's touchscreen, capable of locking onto vehicles, pets or people up to 10 meters away and re-acquiring if they exit the frame. An electronic briefcase handle enables one-handed operation and magnetic mounting.

How to turn an Android phone into a webcam with Camo Studio on Windows and OBS

January 29, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. Need a webcam fast? An old Android phone can double as a wireless webcam using Camo Studio and the Camo Camera app, working with Windows 10 or 11 and OBS. The setup links a PC and phone over the same Wi-Fi network and can run on battery, but external power is advised for longer sessions. Start by downloading and installing Camo Studio on Windows, then install the companion Camo Camera app on the Android device. In Windows, select Pair a device, then open the Android app and scan the QR code. The phone's camera feed appears in the Camo Studio window and can be routed to OBS as a video source. The article walks through device selection, resolution, and light settings, plus tips for uptime.

DJI RS 5 gimbal debuts with vertical Z-axis stabilization and faster charging

January 29, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. DJI unveiled the RS 5 Gimbal Stabilizer, delivering Z-axis vertical stabilization and a payload of up to 3 kg. The 1.46 kg body supports a wide range of mirrorless cameras and lenses and can switch to vertical shooting without extra accessories. Highlights include a one-hour full charge with a 65W PD charger, second-generation automated axis locks, and an Electronic Briefcase Handle for one-handed operation. An on-screen Z-Axis Indicator guides steadier movement. The Intelligent Tracking Module is magnetic and removable, tracks people, vehicles or other objects up to 10 meters and re-acquires a subject if it leaves the frame. DJI cites a 5th-generation RS stabilization algorithm delivering about 50% higher peak motor torque for better stability in fast action.

Deal of the Day: Apple AirPods Pro 3 match their all-time low price

January 29, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. AirPods Pro 3 return to their lowest price ever, a practical nudge for iPhone owners. They offer strong noise cancellation, solid call quality, and up to 8 hours of battery life with ANC on. The buds include built-in heart rate sensors that let you start workouts from your iPhone and track heart rate, GPS and calories burned with no separate tracker. Five ear-tip sizes help fit more ears. Drawbacks: the price remains high, and Bluetooth multipoint is not supported. They work best with Apple devices and carry IP57 water resistance. NBC Select also notes a sale on the AirPods 4 ANC at about 34% off. Price history was checked across multiple retailers to find the best deal.

Camo Studio turns old Android phones into Windows webcam for OBS

January 29, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Old Android smartphones can be repurposed as wireless webcams using Camo Studio and the Camo Camera app. The setup runs on Windows 10 or Windows 11 and works with OBS and other broadcast software. It uses Wi-Fi, but keeping the phone plugged in prevents battery drain during longer sessions. To start, install Camo Studio on Windows and the Camo Camera app on Android. In Camo Studio, select Device > Pair a device. On the phone, tap Wi-Fi+ and scan the QR code shown in Studio. After connection, adjust Device Settings for resolution, focus, and light modes, and switch between cameras. The system also supports USB webcams if you prefer a wired option.

Samsung Galaxy S26 could embed magnets for MagSafe-style charging, leaker claims

January 29, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Leaked images and case listings suggest the Galaxy S26 series will sport built-in magnets for a MagSafe-style experience. Rendered by Evan Blass, the S26, S26 Plus and S26 Ultra show a pill-shaped camera block and back magnets. MysteryLupin's posts depict Kindsuit cases for the Ultra with magnetic rings, described as magnetic in packaging. If true, Samsung would join Apple by baking a magnetic connection into the phone, potentially paired with a magnetic wireless charger. Samsung already added Qi2 support with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, but did not include built-in magnets. A built-in system could offer a steadier connection without a case. Official confirmation is expected at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, with release likely from March 11.

SpaceX to launch Falcon 9 from Vandenberg on Jan. 29 at 7:17 a.m. PT

January 29, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. SpaceX plans to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Thursday, Jan. 29. A four-hour window opens at 7:17 a.m. PT, with a backup opportunity if the lift is postponed to the next day. The two-stage, 230-foot rocket will deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4E, following a southern trajectory. Public viewing is not at the base, but clear conditions can draw spectators from Santa Barbara County to nearby sites along the coast. Weather or technical delays are common in spaceflight, so check for updates.

Deal of the Day: AirPods Pro 3 hit lowest price ever

January 29, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. Apple's AirPods Pro 3 return to their all-time low price in a deal round-up. The earbuds deliver active noise cancellation and transparency mode, with up to 8 hours of battery life when ANC is on. They sport IP57 water resistance, wireless charging, and a silicone/foam hybrid ear tip set. A built-in heart rate sensor lets users start workouts from their iPhone and track heart rate, GPS and calories burned with the AirPods Pro 3. Bluetooth multipoint is not included. The model is positioned as best for iPhone users and carries a premium price. The report also notes a sale on AirPods 4 ANC, offering a different fit and about a 34% discount. Price history and retailer comparisons inform the deal's appeal.

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS updates to five years, through 2028

January 29, 2026, 5:34 PM EST. Google quietly updated its support page to extend the Pixel Tablet updates to five years, covering both Android OS updates and security updates through June 2028. The change, effective as of January 29, 2026, aligns the tablet with the five-year policy Google applies to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 families, while newer devices like the Pixel 8 line continue with a seven-year window. The tablet will receive updates starting from its first availability on the US Google Store and may include new features via Pixel Drops. The move extends the device's software longevity, even if the tablet was not a major seller.

Google extends Android OS updates for Pixel Tablet to June 2028

January 29, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. Google extends Android OS and security updates for the Pixel Tablet through June 2028, a two-year extension that brings its policy in line with other Pixel devices. The device will receive 5 years of updates from its US store launch, covering both OS and security updates. The change mirrors Google's approach for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series and aligns with the longer policy now applied to newer models such as the Pixel 8 family. Pixel Drops may bring new features during this period. Despite modest sales, Google preserves longer software support, signaling a broader push to extend lifecycles for Pixel hardware.

Pixelmator Pro debuts on iPad via Apple Creator Studio

January 29, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. Pixelmator Pro has landed on iPad, exclusive to Apple Creator Studio subscribers. The Mac app remains a separate purchase. Early hands-on notes praise a Liquid Glass design that adapts to window size, a touch-optimized interface, and strong keyboard shortcuts. Apple Pencil support is highlighted, including hover, squeeze, double-tap and palm rejection. On iPad, the Warp tool lets users twist and bend images and text with a grid, plus 12 smart presets and 3×3 to 5×5 grids. Two new mockup collections showcase product and apparel designs. You can insert photos from the iPad camera as new layers and roundtrip edits between iPad and Mac via iCloud Sync. The suite also includes pro-grade color adjustments and ML-powered background removal and upscaling.

Patreon to switch to Apple subscription billing by November as Apple revives mandate

January 29, 2026, 5:18 PM EST. Patreon says it strongly disagrees with Apple's decision to reimpose its in-app subscription billing mandate, forcing creators to drop legacy billing methods. The policy takes effect on November 1, 2026 and will affect about 4% of Patreon's creators who still use first-of-the-month or per-creation billing. Patreon will automatically transition those not switching manually by the deadline. Apple briefly rolled out and then paused a similar rule in 2024 after the Epic Games v. Apple ruling; the new deadline revives the mandate. On iOS, creators can still avoid Apple's 30% commission by signing up via mobile web, but subscription billing will carry those fees and is the only option that supports Apple's in-app purchase (IAP) system. Patreon did not immediately comment.

NRO Declassifies Jumpseat SIGINT Satellite; Eight Launches From 1971-1987

January 29, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. The NRO has publicly detailed the declassification of the Jumpseat satellite, a long-secret SIGINT platform used to monitor Soviet assets during the Cold War. Eight Jumpseat missions, 7701-7708, flew from 1971 to 1987 on Titan III boosters from Vandenberg Air Force Base. One launch failed; others yielded imagery and data, though many elements remain redacted. Jumpseat operated in two SIGINT subfields: COMINT, which eavesdrops on military communications, and FISINT, which intercepts telemetry and radar emissions from foreign weapon systems. The first and last missions have been confirmed with dates; linking others to specific launches remains uncertain. A parallel program, QUASAR, carried data-relay assets in the same orbit.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag 2 support

January 29, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 and iPadOS 26.2.1 today, a minor update arriving a month after the previous 26.2 release. The update adds support for the next-generation AirTag 2, which uses a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip to improve Precision Finding. Apple's notes describe unspecified bug fixes as part of the package. The software is available over the air for eligible iPhones and iPads via Settings > General > Software Update. In parallel, Apple also issued older-device updates-iOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13, 15.8.6 and 12.5.8-for devices unable to run iOS 26. The release underscores Apple's ongoing maintenance cycle for its mobile platforms.

Google's Aluminium OS raises questions as Android-Chrome OS merger looms

January 29, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. Google is preparing to merge Android with Chrome OS, with a hands-on glimpse of an upcoming desktop interface called Aluminium OS. Two screen recordings from a private bug report show a split-screen multitasking layout and Play Store app updates. Critics caution the design looks more Android desktop than a traditional Chrome OS experience. A persistent top bar repeats status icons-date, time, battery, language, connectivity-while a bottom taskbar holds apps and a drawer. The arrangement risks wasted vertical space and a steeper learning curve for Windows or Chrome OS users. The browser shown is Chrome Dev, raising questions about desktop parity and extension support. Observers say Aluminium OS could unify Android's look, but may hinder real-world productivity until it matures.

Samsung Nears Nvidia HBM4 Certification, February Production Eyed

January 29, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Samsung Electronics is nearing final certification from Nvidia for its HBM4 memory, Bloomberg reported, with samples delivered and a last-stage qualification under way. Sources say mass production could begin as early as February and shipments could follow soon after, pending Nvidia approval. The signoff would mark a meaningful step for Samsung in AI memory, potentially narrowing the gap with rivals SK Hynix and Micron Technology, which currently lead. Nvidia's blessing acts as a gatekeeper for AI memory suppliers, and HBM4 would position Samsung to supply future Nvidia Rubin processors. With AI memory prices expected to rise more than 50% this quarter as demand outruns supply, timing matters for Samsung and its investors.

Davos signals shift from AI optimism to data and AI sovereignty

January 29, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. At Davos 2026, leaders shift from AI optimism to sovereignty. HPE CEO Antonio Neri urged business and government to take control of destiny amid rising regulatory risk and geopolitical tension. Across sessions, executives focus on steering data sovereignty and AI sovereignty-infrastructure and decision power-rather than chasing capability openers. Deloitte's Geoff Tuff and Steven Goldbach warn that exponential change punishes hesitation: waiting costs more than acting. Kevin Dallas of EDB notes that AI sovereignty remains heavy on storytelling; the winners embed it in operating models. EDB research shows 13% of leaders who treat sovereignty as mission-critical deploy about 2x more GenAI apps and realize roughly 5x ROI. The takeaway: act now, or risk locked data, production dependency, and narrowed strategic leverage.

AI-driven cyberattacks cheaper, study finds

January 29, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. Eye on AI reports that Wiz's Gal Nagli and Irregular's Omer Nevo say AI-powered hacking is becoming inexpensive. In a joint study, they found AI agents completed sophisticated offensive-security tasks for under $50 in LLM costs-versus roughly $100,000 if done by human researchers. In controlled tests, agents solved 9 of 10 real-world modeled attacks, signaling that large swaths of offensive work are fast, cheap, autonomous. The duo warn that non-technical staff using coding tools can expose sensitive data to the internet, expanding the attack surface. The research argues that cost no longer constrains criminals, who can probe and exploit systems for just a few dollars, turning every exposed system into a target.

Iran plans permanent break from global internet, activists say

January 29, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Activists say Iran is pursuing a permanent break from the global internet, turning online access into a government privilege. Filterwatch, a digital rights group, says a confidential plan would grant only those with security clearance access to a filtered version of the internet, while others would be confined to a national network. State media and officials have signaled a permanent shift, warning that unrestricted access may not return after 2026. The plan follows a 16-year push to use a whitelisting regime, observers say, aided by technology and devices from China. Project Ainita and the Outline Foundation researchers point to high-capacity middleboxes that monitor and shape traffic. Analysts caution the move could reshape the economy and culture, and it follows Iran's 8 January shutdown sparked by protests and Nowruz is on 20 March.

Google opens Project Genie prototype to AI Ultra subscribers, showcasing Genie 3 for real-time interactive worlds

January 29, 2026, 4:40 PM EST. Google is rolling out a prototype called Project Genie to Google AI Ultra subscribers in the United States (18+), enabling users to create, explore and remix their own immersive worlds. The effort centers on a world model named Genie 3 that generates real-time environments, predicts how actions unfold, and sustains consistent simulations across varied scenarios-from robotics and animation to historical settings. The experimental web app is powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini, and follows earlier tester work with a broader access goal. It marks a step toward the company's AGI mission by letting users interact with evolving worlds through three core capabilities in an open, interactive prototype.

Apple Watch Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop debuts in Philippines for Black History Month

January 29, 2026, 4:38 PM EST. Apple on Tuesday introduced the Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop to celebrate Black History Month. The band is now listed in the Philippines Apple Store with a price of PHP 5,990. It uses recycled polyester yarn for a soft, textured feel and sweat- and water-resistance. Apple says the design was created by Black designers and supporters at Apple, with proceeds supporting organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Urban Arts (New York), Youth Music (London), Art Gallery of New South Wales (Sydney) and Enactus México (Mexico City). Two case sizes, 42mm and 46mm, with band sizes 0 to 12. It is compatible with Apple Watch Series 4 and newer, Apple Watch SE and all Ultra variants except the 46mm Ultra compatibility is limited. Available through the Apple Store online.

Google expands access to Project Genie prototype powered by Genie 3

January 29, 2026, 4:26 PM EST. Google expands access to Project Genie, an experimental prototype built around Genie 3, its general-purpose world model that creates interactive environments in real time. Available now to Google AI Ultra subscribers in the United States (18+), the prototype lets users create, explore and remix immersive worlds. Genie 3 simulates physics and dynamics across diverse scenarios, predicting how actions unfold and enabling a flexible path ahead as users move and interact. Google says the system aims to advance AGI by navigating the diversity of the real world, beyond static snapshots. The effort builds on earlier tester feedback and centers on a web app powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini, with a focus on three core capabilities. Project Genie marks the next step in their world-model research and cross-domain experimentation.

Google expands Project Genie rollout with real-time world model for immersive, interactive worlds

January 29, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. Google begins wider access to Project Genie, a prototype built on Genie 3 to let users create, explore and remix interactive worlds. The rollout targets Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S. (18+). Genie 3 is a general-purpose world model that generates the path ahead in real time, simulating physics and interactions for dynamic environments. Google says the system supports a range of scenarios-from robotics and animation to fiction, locations and historical settings-and aims to advance its AGI mission by navigating the diversity of the real world. The experimental prototype is powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini and follows trusted testers across industries. The experience centers on three core capabilities, with access beginning today.

Apple earnings preview: Wall Street wants AI updates, iPhone sales in focus

January 29, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Apple's latest quarterly results are due as investors search for signs of momentum in AI initiatives and iPhone demand. Analysts expect management to outline progress in artificial intelligence features, silicon development, and broader platform investments, alongside fresh commentary on hardware cycles and services growth. The company faces questions on product mix, gross margins, and how AI efforts translate into user adoption and monetization. Wall Street will parse guidance, commentary on supply chains, and any updates to the iPhone line, including potential price moves or new models. The scene remains focused on whether AI investments translate into tangible revenue while iPhone sales stabilize after a volatile year.

Google DeepMind opens Project Genie access for US AI Ultra subscribers to test world-model tool for interactive game worlds

January 29, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. Google DeepMind is opening access to Project Genie, an AI tool that builds interactive game worlds from text prompts or images. Starting Thursday, AI Ultra subscribers in the US can try the experimental prototype, powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini. The move follows Genie 3's research preview and aims to collect user feedback and training data as DeepMind advances world models. World models generate internal representations of environments to predict outcomes and plan actions, a step many researchers see as foundational to artificial general intelligence. In the near term, DeepMind frames Genie as a product path from video games and entertainment to simulated training for embodied agents. The tool can be inconsistent; outputs vary from playable to baffling.

Airports embrace AI to manage growing global passenger traffic

January 29, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Airports are pouring AI into passenger flow, baggage tracking and predictive maintenance as global air travel nears 10.2 billion passengers in 2026. With data from Airport Council International, airports are embedding AI in workflows to smooth throughput at security, immigration and boarding, while sharpening on-site and virtual customer experiences. Analysts say AI analytics can tailor services to individual travelers and shift airports from reactive crowd control to predictive operations. Biometric processing and baggage optimization appear on the horizon, potentially letting travellers pass immigration with minimal friction. Yet observers note aviation's AI uptake remains modest relative to the technology's rapid curve. Industry executives at the Airport AI Exchange cite steady progress, while caution over legacy systems and regulatory hurdles persists.

Airports embrace AI to manage growing passenger traffic

January 29, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Airports are integrating AI across workflows to cope with a forecast surge to 10.2 billion travelers in 2026, with a 3.9% year-on-year rise. The technology is used for passenger flow management, baggage tracking, and predictive maintenance, aiming to boost efficiency and the traveler experience. AI-driven analytics flag potential congestion at security, immigration, and boarding points, enabling preemptive resource allocation rather than reactive crowd control. Tools for biometric processing and baggage optimisation promise faster check-ins, boarding, and even immigration without physical passports. Analysts note advances are rapid but aviation adoption remains uneven; experts say the sector must scale AI further to match the curve seen in other industries. Data from Airport Council International informs the trend.

Airports embrace AI to manage growing global passenger traffic

January 29, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Airports are expanding the use of AI to handle a projected 10.2 billion travelers in 2026, up 3.9% from 2025, according to Airport Council International data. The technology is embedded across workflows to improve passenger flow, baggage tracking, predictive maintenance and on-site experiences. At the Airport AI Exchange, analysts say AI is reshaping security, immigration and boarding with analytics that shift from reactive crowd management to proactive, predictive operations. Baggage optimisation and biometric processing – potentially letting travelers pass immigration without a passport – are gaining traction to boost efficiency and satisfaction. Amad Malik, chief AI officer at Airport AI Exchange, notes AI's progress has been exponential in recent years. Still, aviation's adoption lags the AI curve, a gap some call deliberate and solvable.

Google DeepMind opens Project Genie access to U.S. AI Ultra subscribers

January 29, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Google DeepMind opened Project Genie to U.S. AI Ultra subscribers, combining Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini. The experimental tool lets users craft explorable game worlds from text prompts or images, then play as a main character in first- or third-person view. Genie uses a user-provided world sketch and an image from Nano Banana Pro as a starting point, with real-life photos supported as baselines. The company says the system builds internal world models to predict outcomes and guide actions. The release, five months after Genie 3's preview, aims to gather feedback and training data as DeepMind races to develop more capable world models. Early outputs are uneven: some worlds are impressive; others misfire, such as purple hair when green is requested. Remixing existing worlds is possible.

SpaceX set to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg this morning

January 29, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. SpaceX is targeting the launch of 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit this morning, with a window from 7:17 to 11:17 a.m. local time. The mission will lift off from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The launch underscores SpaceX's ongoing effort to grow its Starlink broadband constellation. Liftoff times can shift due to weather or range conditions, but SpaceX plans to proceed within the posted window.

Google DeepMind opens access to Project Genie AI world generator for interactive game worlds

January 29, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Google DeepMind is opening access to Project Genie, its AI tool for creating interactive game worlds from text prompts or images. Starting Thursday, Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S. can test a prototype powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro and Gemini. The move, five months after Genie 3's research preview, aims to gather user feedback and training data as DeepMind builds more capable world models. A world model creates an internal representation of an environment to predict outcomes and plan actions, a step some researchers view as foundational to artificial general intelligence (AGI). Genie's rollout follows similar efforts from World Labs Marble, Runway and AMI Labs. Demos describe mixed results-some playable worlds, others off-mark-yet users can sketch a world and remix it.

SpaceX to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg this morning

January 29, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. SpaceX aims to launch 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base this morning. The window runs from 7:17 to 11:17 a.m. local time. The payload will join SpaceX's growing Starlink constellation, expanding broadband coverage. The launch site is on the U.S. West Coast, a frequent venue for orbital missions. SpaceX will provide updates during the countdown and after liftoff as the satellites reach orbit. If the mission proceeds on schedule, deployment should advance the network serving customers in multiple regions.

SpaceX targets 25-Starlink launch from Vandenberg this morning

January 29, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. SpaceX targets a morning launch of 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The window runs from 7:17 to 11:17 a.m. local time. If successful, the mission will extend the growing Starlink constellation designed to provide global broadband.

Apple buys Israeli AI startup Q.AI to bolster AI-device push

January 29, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Apple has acquired Israeli startup Q.AI, the latest step in its push to bolster AI capabilities across devices. The deal accelerates Apple's effort to advance on-device AI and edge computing as it competes with Meta and Google in AI-powered devices. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed. The move underscores Apple's strategy to deepen its hardware-software integration, potentially informing future features for iPhones, wearables and other devices.

Blueprint for a Renewed National Quantum Initiative

January 29, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. The United States seeks sustained leadership in quantum information science to translate breakthroughs into secure technologies and a skilled workforce. Congress must reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative (NQI), a bipartisan framework signed Dec. 21, 2018, spanning universities, national labs and industry. The program accelerated progress in qubit coherence, gate fidelities and system scaling, moving quantum platforms from demos to scalable architectures. In Dec. 2025, Under Secretary Dr. Darío Gil described the Genesis Mission-an integrated platform blending AI and quantum science to double national R&D productivity within a decade. The convergence of AI and quantum is now seen as foundational, not optional. Reauthorizing the NQI would enable an evolved national strategy, break silos and prioritize AI-quantum integration to accelerate science, security and economic competitiveness.

Bondu AI toy exposed 50,000 child-chat transcripts via unprotected web portal

January 29, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Researchers Joseph Thacker and Joel Margolis found that Bondu's web console, meant for parents and staff, was accessible to anyone with a Gmail account. By logging in with an arbitrary Google account, they could view child names, birthdates, family members, a child's 'objectives,' and detailed transcripts of chats between the child and the toy. Bondu confirmed more than 50,000 transcripts were exposed. The company took the portal offline within minutes and relaunched with authentication controls; CEO Fateen Anam Rafid said security fixes were completed within hours and found no evidence of outside access beyond the researchers. The researchers say they did not download sensitive data beyond a screenshot and screen recording. They criticized the incident as a major privacy breach and risk to families.

NVIDIA expands OpenUSD and Omniverse to accelerate robotics at CES 2026

January 29, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Open source is shaping robotics and autonomy, NVIDIA says. At CES 2026, the company rolled out a suite of open physical AI models and frameworks designed to accelerate humanoids, autonomous vehicles and other embodied systems. The tools cover the robotics lifecycle-from high-fidelity world simulation and synthetic data to cloud-native orchestration and edge deployment. OpenUSD standardizes 3D data sharing, enabling digital twins that travel from simulation to deployment; Omniverse libraries provide the ground-truth simulation backbone. The stack draws on Cosmos world models, Isaac technologies (including the new Lab-Arena policy-evaluation framework), Alpamayo for autonomous vehicles, and OSMO to orchestrate training across compute. Caterpillar's Cat AI Assistant, on Jetson Thor, adds natural language interaction in heavy equipment. LEM Surgical's Dynamis Robotic Surgical System (FDA-cleared) uses Jetson AGX Thor, Holoscan and Isaac for Healthcare; Cosmos Transfer enables open world models.

Google Chrome adds Gemini side panel, auto browse and Nano Banana in AI feature rollout

January 29, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Google is expanding AI in Chrome with a persistent Gemini side panel, moving from a floating window to an always-on right-side panel. Google says the redesign lets users multitask while AI handles tasks such as product comparisons or review summaries across tabs. The update also adds Nano Banana, Google's AI image generator, enabling in-browser image transformation via text prompts. The flagship feature, auto browse, is rolling out to AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the U.S. and can handle multi-step tasks like researching travel prices, filling forms, scheduling, and managing subscriptions. It can search within a budget, use Chrome's password manager with permission, and pause for user confirmation for sensitive actions. A Personal Intelligence feature is planned for future releases.

HR leaders discuss AI reshaping hiring and talent pipelines at Davos roundtable

January 29, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. At a Davos roundtable presented by Indeed, 15 HR and C-Suite executives debated how AI is reshaping the hiring process-from screening to building talent pipelines. The discussion highlighted how entry-level roles are being rethought as firms pursue leaner operations while preserving future leadership. Deloitte's Elizabeth Faber urged a careful, intentional embrace of AI-driven growth for people. Participants weighed balancing short-term cost pressures with long-term development of pipeline talent, noting how industries like management consulting built large internal training streams that now must adapt quickly. The exchange signals a broader tension between efficiency and investment in people in the age of AI.

TCL Nxtpaper 11 Plus: affordable, switchable color/ink display at $239

January 29, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. The TCL Nxtpaper 11 Plus arrives at about $239 with a bundled stylus and flip case. It features an 11.5-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 256GB of built-in storage, plus expandable RAM up to 8GB. A standout is Nxtpaper 4.0, which lets you switch from full color to an ink-paper look at the press of a side button, improving on the previous model. The matte screen works well with a stylus and hides glare. The tablet suits media consumption and light work, and can double as an e-reader. It's sold at Walmart (tablet only for about $224) or Amazon (bundle for $269). A caveat: it can feel heavy when used one-handed.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW lands natively on Linux as Flatpak, starting with Ubuntu 24.04

January 29, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. NVIDIA has published a Linux-native GeForce NOW in Flatpak form, delivering the CES promise of a desktop client. The build is officially supported on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and newer, with Flatpak packaging enabling broader Linux use, though no AArch64 binaries yet. GeForce NOW renders games in NVIDIA's cloud using Blackwell GPUs; local hardware must support H.264 or H.265 Vulkan Video. Vulkan Video AV1 is not yet supported on Linux. For NVIDIA GPUs, a R580-series or newer is recommended with X.Org; Intel and AMD users should run Mesa 24.2+ with Wayland. The catalog tops 4,500 games. A free tier exists; Performance and Ultimate tiers add RTX ray tracing, 1440p60, and longer sessions, up to eight hours. Initial downloads are via NVIDIA.com, not Flathub.

Wayfarer Map goes live across Niantic games with enhanced Wayspot search

January 29, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Niantic released the long-awaited Wayfarer Map for all eligible Wayfinders, expanding access beyond Pokémon GO to other Niantic games. The map now appears as the first page on the Wayfarer website, replacing the Showcase. Users can search by latitude/longitude, city or park, browse Wayspots, and filter between community- and Niantic-sourced entries. It offers satellite and map views, a centering button, and quick access to PokéStop, Gym, and Power Spot Wayspots. Selecting a Wayspot reveals title, a photo gallery with a cover image, description, and location with address and coordinates, plus directions and reporting for Wayfarer criteria violations. The update sparked positive reactions on Reddit, with players calling it helpful and noting potential edits to existing PokéStops. Overall, an exciting step for exploration.

Why automakers aren't licensing Tesla's Full Self-Driving software

January 29, 2026, 2:50 PM EST. Automakers have shown little interest in licensing Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software despite the company's push into autonomous tech. Industry executives say the system is tightly tied to Tesla's hardware and data approach, complicating cross-brand deployment. FSD relies on Tesla's cameras, bespoke compute, and continuous over-the-air updates, which would require costly reengineering for other platforms and raises safety and liability questions under different regulatory regimes. Car makers are betting on in-house or third-party stacks from Mobileye, NVIDIA, or Aptiv designed to fit existing architectures and rules. The business model, IP protection, and risk of brand damage from broad ADAS failures also weigh against licensing. In short, alignment with product safety, regulatory regimes, and current architectures slows any licensing path.

Smartphone cameras: why megapixels hype misses the sensor size that actually matters

January 29, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. Rising phone cameras chase higher megapixels, but the number alone rarely equals better photos. Megapixels measure resolution only; they reveal how many pixels form the final image, not the pixel quality, sensor, or processing. In practice, many 200MP sensors rely on pixel binning, producing large outputs only in specific modes and not representing true native resolution. Some devices pair a 200MP telephoto or hide the 200MP mode behind settings. The real driver is sensor size: a larger sensor gathers more light, improving low-light, color, detail, and dynamic range. Marketing gloss hides this nuance. Critics argue that, for image quality, buyers should compare sensor size and how a phone handles light, not just the headline megapixel count. Examples illustrate the gap between advertised specs and actual performance.

Microsoft Q2 earnings beat; stock slides as AI spend, cloud growth loom

January 29, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Microsoft beat expectations in Q2 with EPS of $5.16 and revenue of $81.27 billion. Cloud revenue reached $51.5 billion, just above estimates, while Intelligent Cloud totaled $32.9 billion. The results underscore Microsoft's deepening AI tilt, backed by OpenAI commitments that propelled RPO to $625 billion. Yet the stock fell more than 11% as investors fretted about slower cloud growth and higher AI spending. Management cited early AI diffusion and a need to expand capacity, with CAPEX rising to $37.5 billion. The More Personal Computing segment contributed $14.3 billion, roughly in line with forecasts. Nadella reiterated the AI growth trajectory as investors weigh near-term margins against a longer-term AI-driven plan.

Nvidia's China AI-chip sales gain momentum as policy shifts unlock licenses

January 29, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. Beijing has begun approving licenses for hundreds of thousands of Nvidia H200 AI chips for Chinese firms ByteDance, Alibaba and Tencent, timed with Jensen Huang's visit to Shanghai and Shenzhen. Reuters reports more than 400,000 chips under conditional licenses, with additional approvals expected in coming weeks. The move marks a reversal from the Biden administration's tightened export controls that banned high-end chips to China over national-security fears. Supporters of limited sales argue they prevent a total loss of the market to Chinese chipmakers and keep US technology in play, building a controlled channel instead of a gray market. White House officials say the policy is justified by ongoing smuggling and that limited, regulated sales are preferable. Beijing aims to give domestic firms compute to train near-frontier AI while maintaining demand for Huawei and incentives for Chinese chipmakers.

Michigan backs Midland EV battery materials expansion; 22 jobs and $20 million investment

January 29, 2026, 2:40 PM EST. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that Midland-based DDP Specialty Electronic Materials US, a DuPont unit, will expand to add 6,000 square feet of EV battery materials production and 22 new jobs. The project carries a $20 million capital investment and is backed by a $200,000 Michigan Strategic Fund grant through the Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP). The expansion includes truck docks, warehouse space and a five-story facility to produce thermal adhesives for EV batteries. Officials said Michigan beat China and Germany for the project, citing higher overseas labor costs. DDP operates five Michigan sites and employs about 450 state residents.

Apple dominates 2025 best-selling smartphone list as iPhone 17 base model ranks 7th

January 29, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Apple dominated the 2025 best-selling smartphone rankings, with iPhones occupying seven of the top ten slots, Counterpoint Research said. For the full year, the leading model by volume was the iPhone 16, while the base iPhone 17 still finished in seventh place-an improvement from the iPhone 16's 10th spot in 2024 and a sign that buyers favor the new base model unless pro features are required. The iPhone 17 series posted 16% higher sales than its predecessor in the first full quarter after launch, driven by demand in the US, China and Western Europe. The base iPhone 17 gained traction thanks to upgrades like a higher refresh rate, more RAM and larger base storage, narrowing the gap with Pro variants. Counterpoint Research echoed this assessment.

Ukraine seeks SpaceX help after drones allegedly use Starlink in attacks

January 29, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. Ukraine's Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said Kyiv has contacted SpaceX within hours of reports that Russian drones used Starlink connectivity over Ukrainian cities. He thanked SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk for a fast response and said work to resolve the issue has begun. Fedorov hailed Musk's early-war decision to activate Starlink and send terminals as vital to the country's resilience, urging Western technologies to aid civilians and deter aggression. Separately, Ukraine researchers said Russian drones may have used Starlink guidance in a January 24 strike near Kropyvnytskyi. Starlink has become a critical communications backbone for frontline units since the invasion.

Vandals cut internet in three Tulsa-area communities, copper theft suspected

January 29, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Three Tulsa-area communities suffered an internet service disruption after vandals cut into copper at critical network infrastructure, Optimum said. Residents and businesses in Cushing, Porter and Henryetta were affected, and Tulsa itself experienced an impact because Optimum's network feeds a partner in the city. In a notice, Optimum urged vigilance for unmarked vehicles or workers near infrastructure without credentials, and asked the public to report suspicious activity to local authorities or via its 24/7 chat, the My Optimum app, or Customer Support. The company apologized, said teams responded immediately, and noted service was restored quickly after the deliberate damage by criminal activity. Optimum urged the community to remain vigilant and report concerns to authorities.

AirTag 2 deal, M5 iPad Pro discounts, Trail Loop and Crossbody Strap price cuts

January 29, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. 9to5Mac reports a fresh batch of Apple discounts. The AirTag 2 is available at $29, with a 4-pack and an extra AirTag 2 for $1. The bundle sits alongside ongoing discounts on the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 with ANC at roughly 35% off. The deals extend to the M5 iPad Pro, with the 11-inch 256GB model offered at $785.99 open-box from Best Buy (regular $999). Apple's cheaper option still commands value, with up to about $213 off the list price. In accessories, the Green Trail Loop drops to 41% off at Amazon, price $58.03 for small/medium. The Crossbody Strap is at up to 55% off, near all-time lows, and the Pro Display XDR is $500 off in a rare deal. Full details and conditions follow.

AppleUnsold sells Apple Store display items in Australia, sparking legality questions

January 29, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Australian seller AppleUnsold markets store displays and other Apple fixtures that normally sit behind the counter. The items include iPhone MagSafe demo chargers, AirPods Max stands, and Apple Vision Pro trays, plus diagnostic gear and cables such as an Apple Watch restore dock and a HomePod debugging cable. Macworld notes the operation's legality appears questionable, even as the seller maintains a 100% positive rating on its eBay storefront from 15 buyers. Most items are currently sold out, with restocking aimed for mid-February. Apple could move to shut the operation down, the report suggests, but for now customers can buy items that Apple normally keeps for internal use or display.

Nvidia, Amazon and Microsoft in Talks for $60 Billion OpenAI Investment

January 29, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. U.S.-listed AI developers OpenAI attracted possible commitments totaling around $60 billion from three major tech players: Nvidia, Microsoft, and Amazon. People familiar with the discussions say Nvidia is weighing about $30 billion, Microsoft roughly $10 billion, and Amazon between $10 billion and $20 billion. The talks are preliminary and terms are not final. The financing aims to cover the compute needs of next-generation models and could push OpenAI's valuation toward about $830 billion, on top of a separate SoftBank plan to invest as much as $30 billion. The size underscores OpenAI's role in cloud infrastructure, AI software, and model development. Critics warn the round risks signaling a bubble, given the circular funding loop where backers buy chips and cloud capacity without clear, durable end-user profits.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: a niche engineering marvel with limited mass appeal

January 29, 2026, 2:20 PM EST. Singapore – A month with Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold shows a contrarian verdict: it's an engineering marvel that remains divisive. The reviewer, among the first in Singapore to unfold and refold the device, notes the tri-fold form factor is a bold departure but not a device for the masses. In a market that prizes high-end cameras and long battery life, the phone reads more as a niche product that blends phone and small-tablet duties. For buyers who can justify its complexity and price, it could be the best investment this year.

Tesla's energy storage grows fastest segment with 46.7 GWh in 2025 and 29.8% gross margin

January 29, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. Tesla's energy storage business helped cushion a weaker EV performance in 2025. The company deployed a record 46.7 gigawatt-hours of storage products, up 48% year over year, and storage plus energy generation revenue rose 26.5% to $12.8 billion. Storage now accounts for about a quarter of gross profit, with the Megapack and Powerwall contributing $1.1 billion of the year's $3.8 billion in storage gross profit. Gross margins on storage and generation are 29.8%, roughly twice the margin on vehicles. Tesla expects to recognize about $4.96 billion in deferred revenue from ongoing storage projects this year, more than double 2025. Near-term headwinds include changes to residential credits under OBBBA, tariffs and price pressure, but management remains bullish on grid-stabilizing opportunities for storage as AI-driven demand grows.

I wore a smart ring for a month-here's why I prefer it to a smartwatch

January 29, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. After a decade with a smartwatch, I spent a month wearing the smart ring to see if it could beat a watch for health tracking. I slipped it on December 19 and wore it every day. I was skeptical: rings lack a display and seemed limited to health metrics, while smartwatches offer weather, notifications and more. I also doubted whether tiny sensors could match the accuracy of established trackers. Yet a month in altered my view, not dramatically but in practical terms. The Oura Ring 4 delivers reliable sleep tracking and subtle daily data without drawing attention. It shines for continuous wear and comfort, though it misses quick interactions and rich notifications. Overall, the stance softened toward smart rings, with the caveat that rings excel at sleep and subtle health insights.

Can Xbox Outlast the AI Bubble?

January 29, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. Microsoft's Xbox unit weighed on hardware results as demand faltered and prices rose. In the quarter to Dec. 31, 2025, Xbox hardware revenue fell 32% amid tariffs and a price hike that left the Series X digital edition at $600. By contrast, Microsoft's Intelligent Cloud, led by Azure, posted 39% revenue growth, helping the company report a 17% rise in total quarterly revenue and a 23% jump in net income for its 2026 fiscal year. CEO Satya Nadella touted record PC players and paid streaming hours, while Xbox content and services revenue fell 5% after the Game Pass Ultimate price increase to $30/month. Game Pass cloud hours climbed 45% YoY, illustrating demand for cloud gaming even as console sales cooled.

iPhone 18 may hold price steady as Galaxy S26 faces RAM-driven hikes, reports say

January 29, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Samsung is expected to raise prices for some Galaxy S26 models, driven by higher RAM and flash costs, according to dealer data seen by WinFuture. The base S26 could start at around €200 more than the S25, with a 256GB entry, while the S26 Plus may keep its price despite a 512GB option adding extra cost. The S26 Ultra looks set for a smaller premium. In contrast, Apple reportedly intends to absorb some memory costs to keep the iPhone 18 lineup's starting prices flat, with only higher-storage variants potentially rising. Analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, caution that these are rumors ahead of a likely February unveiling; proceed with caution.

Deezer opens AI music-detection tool to external platforms

January 29, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. Deezer is extending access to its AI music detection tool to external platforms. The tool identifies, tags, and excludes AI-generated music from recommendations. Deezer says the system detected more than 13.4 million AI tracks in 2025 and runs at about 99.8% accuracy. The company processes over 60,000 AI-track uploads daily, about 39% of total uploads, up from 30,000 in September 2025. Deezer says up to 85% of AI-generated streams identified last year were fraudulent, compared with 8% of all streams. CEO Alexis Lanternier notes that fraudulent streams are demonetized to protect human artists' royalties. The announcement comes as Spotify strengthens policies on AI music and Bandcamp bans AI content; Deezer's move broadens enforcement beyond its own service.

DJI Mini 5 Pro lands on Amazon from $759 with Prime shipping

January 29, 2026, 1:44 PM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro is now available on Amazon with Prime shipping, starting at $759. The compact drone carries a 1-inch CMOS sensor, LiDAR obstacle avoidance, and up to about 52 minutes of flight time. It can shoot 4K/60fps HDR video, and its 225-degree gimbal rotation enables true vertical filming for portrait formats without cropping. DJI touts Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing thanks to forward-facing LiDAR, improving low-light obstacle detection. The Amazon listing shows more than 500 units sold in the last month and a 4.6-star rating from nearly 600 reviews; some configurations show limited stock. The product targets casual flyers seeking portability, creators chasing longer flight time, and buyers who want extra batteries, a built-in screen, or other accessories.

SpaceX Falcon 9 set for Jan. 29 liftoff from Vandenberg; watch livestream

January 29, 2026, 1:38 PM EST. SpaceX is targeting a Thursday, Jan. 29 liftoff of a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. The mission will deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, continuing a string of West Coast deployments this month. The four-hour launch window opens at 7:17 a.m. PT, with a backup opportunity the next day if weather or technical issues delay liftoff. Spectators have flocked to viewing areas around Santa Barbara County, but many will follow the mission via SpaceX's livestream and on its X TV app. SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, regularly launches Falcon 9 missions from California and Florida to deploy Starlink and conduct Dragon flights.

Growth Opportunities in the $3.83 Billion Reusable Rockets Market, 2026-2030 & 2035 – SpaceX, Blue Origin, and ArianeGroup Dominate

January 29, 2026, 1:32 PM EST. The global reusable rocket market is expanding, from about $3.3 billion in 2025 to a projected $6.94 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 16%. Growth is driven by vertical takeoff-and-landing tech, rising commercial satellite demand, and government space programs, with cost per launch falling as reuse widens. North America remains a hub; Asia-Pacific is poised for rapid growth. Advances in liquid and solid-fueled stages, space tourism, and international launch collaborations are expected to accelerate the market through 2035. Demand for low-cost satellite constellations and on-demand defense launches is rising, supported by expanding spaceport infrastructure. Major players include SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab, alongside new entrants and consolidation activity that could reshape the supply chain.

Mauritania launches tender for satellite internet licenses to expand nationwide connectivity

January 29, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. Mauritania has launched an international tender to award licenses for mobile electronic communications via satellite or for selling satellite capacity, ARE said on January 22. The two batches cover direct public services via geostationary satellites and capacity sales to other operators or private entities. The move aims to narrow the digital divide after ITU data showed 63% of Mauritanians offline in 2023. Regulators say the plan aligns with a regional push toward satellite connectivity to reach hard-to-serve areas. The market is led by Chinguitel, Mattel, and Moov Mauritel, with strict service obligations on major routes. While LEO providers such as Starlink and Amazon are not yet licensed for direct public use, licenses could follow, with Starlink eyeing a 2026 launch.

Ukraine, SpaceX tackle Starlink use on Russian drones

January 29, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. The Ukrainian Defence Ministry, with SpaceX, is addressing the appearance of Starlink on Russian drones over Ukrainian cities. Mykhailo Fedorov said a few hours after drones equipped with Starlink appeared, Kyiv contacted SpaceX and proposed fixes. He thanked Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk for their swift response and for beginning work to resolve the issue. Musk's decision to urgently activate Starlink and send terminals earlier in the invasion was crucial for Ukraine's resilience, Fedorov added, stressing that Western technologies should help civilians rather than enable attacks. Starlink has been observed on Molniya-type UAVs, suggesting broader development of Russian strike systems; Beskrestnov warned that Shahed drones could switch to Starlink in days.

Casetify and Miss Sohee Collaborate on Korean Heritage-Inspired Tech Accessories

January 29, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. The announcement marks the first collaboration between Casetify and Miss Sohee. The capsule draws on Korean Minhwa folk art for iPhone and iPad cases, including an individual case, an iPad 11-inch (M2/M3) case, and a three-piece phone-case box set. A special fan case was created for Paris Couture Week shows. The collection centers on a Mother of Pearl phone case in a silver mirror base, offered for iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max, plus a Mother of Pearl iPad case. Each piece is hand-plated and made-to-order, with prices ranging from $300 to $900. Sohee Park, founder of London-based Miss Sohee, launched the label in 2020; her work has drawn attention from Cardi B, Bella Hadid and Ariana Grande.

PicPay rings Nasdaq Opening Bell to mark fintech milestone

January 29, 2026, 1:04 PM EST. PicPay (Nasdaq: PICS), the Brazilian fintech company, visited the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square to ring the Opening Bell. CEO Edurado Chedid, Chairman José Antonio Batista Costa, and major shareholders Joesley Batista and Wesley Batista led the ceremony, highlighting PicPay's growth as a listed tech-focused payments firm and its push to broaden investor visibility in the United States.

Apple patches iPhone network bug in Australia with carrier settings update

January 29, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Apple moved quickly to fix a network bug that hit older iPhones in Australia running iOS 16.7.13, Telstra said. The carrier identified the issue as preventing some devices from connecting to its network and even dialing emergency services. Apple paused iOS 16.7.13 and other builds before pushing a carrier settings update targeted at Telstra users, allowing a fix without a full iOS release. The update is available to devices on iOS 16.7.13; iOS 12, 15 and 18 users can install the patch normally. To verify, open Settings > General > About and look for a Service Provider entry showing Telstra 54.1. iOS 16.7.13 remains unavailable until the carrier patch is incorporated into a broader update.

Volvo vows to keep CarPlay and Android Auto; hints at native infotainment path

January 29, 2026, 12:56 PM EST. Volvo's chief engineering and technology officer Anders Bell told The Drive that the automaker will absolutely continue to offer CarPlay and Android Auto in its cars, including EVs, as part of integrating with customers' digital ecosystems rather than forcing a single choice. Volvo has not committed to supporting CarPlay Ultra; Apple had touted Volvo as an initial partner, but the Financial Times reported Volvo decided not to back Ultra. Bell said Volvo aims for a 'really nice integration' and that the long-term goal remains the best native experience via Volvo's own infotainment while ensuring strong CarPlay/Android Auto options. Separately, Volvo unveiled the EX60 SUV, which will include a native Apple Music app with Spatial Audio.

AdGuard offers lifetime ad blocking for $19.97 through Feb. 8

January 29, 2026, 12:52 PM EST. Sponsored content: Mashable partners promote AdGuard's Family Plan. The deal offers a lifetime ad-blocking and security subscription for $19.97 per device, down from $169.99. The offer runs through Feb. 8. AdGuard blocks pop-ups and trackers, shields data from hackers, and removes banner ads for a calmer online experience. The pitch emphasizes privacy and smoother browsing. Deal pricing and availability may change after publication. The copy notes affiliate compensation. For readers seeking fewer interruptions and more control over data, the option provides a multi-device license at a steep discount.

DJI Mini 4K drone price falls to $225 on Amazon after second discount

January 29, 2026, 12:48 PM EST. DJI's entry-level Mini 4K drone is back on sale, with Amazon listing the bundle for $225, a 25% cut from $299. The discount marks its second price drop in a month, and it isn't expected to last long. The drone weighs under 249 g, meaning recreational flyers avoid FAA registration and Remote ID. The kit includes the drone, a battery and receiver, with setup in the DJI Fly app. It features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 4K UHD video, and up to 10 km of HD transmission with strong anti-interference. A single battery offers about 31 minutes of flight; two-battery bundles extend flight time to 62 minutes or more.

Apple Siri settlement payments underway; per-device cap affects payouts

January 29, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. Eligible Apple users are receiving payments from a $95 million settlement over Siri activations that were allegedly overheard and shared with advertisers. Apple denied the allegations. The settlement, approved in January 2025, covers iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and other Siri-enabled devices, with claims filed by July 2, 2025. Payments are capped at $20 per device for up to five devices, and a higher number of filings can reduce the per-device payout. 9to5Mac said recipients have received about $8.02 per device, up to $40.10 total. California plaintiffs filed the suit in 2021. Some claimants reported targeted ads-for example, about Air Jordan sneakers or Olive Garden-after mentioning those topics in private conversations.

One UI 8.5 beta adds missed-call alerts to Galaxy's Now Bar

January 29, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta for Galaxy devices adds missed call notifications to the Now Bar, the lockscreen widget introduced with One UI 7. The bar already shows live updates from compatible apps, including timers, media playback and weather, and can surface information via Now Brief. The beta, spotted in early testing, appears to let Now Bar alert users to calls that came in while they were away. Samsung has expanded Now Bar since launch, adding features like win-probability displays and Google Commute support. A stable One UI 8.5 release isn't available yet, but Samsung is expected to broaden the feature set in future updates.

LiteRT production brings universal on-device AI acceleration across platforms

January 29, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. LiteRT production marks a milestone for on-device AI. Built on ML Drift, it graduates to a universal on-device inference framework that goes beyond TFLite. It delivers 1.4x faster GPU performance and adds NPU acceleration, unifying GPU and NPU workflows across Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux and Web. The stack supports OpenCL, OpenGL, Metal, and WebGPU with automatic Android prioritization of OpenCL and a fallback to OpenGL for broader device coverage. End-to-end latency rises with asynchronous execution and zero-copy buffer interoperability, boosting real-time tasks like background segmentation and ASR. It enables cross-platform deployment for open models and GenAI workflows, with first-class PyTorch/JAX support via model conversion and Gemma readiness.

Wall Street's 12-month Nvidia targets vary widely: Evercore at $352, Seaport at $140

January 29, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Analysts dispute where Nvidia (NVDA) will land in 12 months. Evercore ISI has a Street-high target of $352, while Seaport Global sits at $140; the median target is around $250. With the current price near $191.67, the targets imply a wide range: roughly 84% upside in the bull case and about 27% downside in the bear scenario. The breadth of opinions matters for a stock seen as an AI bellwether. Even the bears have nudged up their thoughts as the company completes its fiscal year. Analysts foresee Q4 revenue and adjusted EPS rising around 67% and 71%, respectively, and lift full-year targets for the new year.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag 2nd-gen support, no security updates

January 29, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 for iPhones from 2019 onward, including the iPhone 11 and newer, plus the second- and third-generation iPhone SE. The update adds support for the AirTag (2nd generation) and fixes a set of bugs, but contains no security updates. Apple says the new AirTag uses an Ultra Wideband chip with extended Precision Finding, a brighter, louder chime, and improved Bluetooth, with some features requiring Apple Watch Series 9 or Watch Ultra 2. An issue affecting emergency calls in Australia surfaced after launch. Generally, minor updates focus on bugs, but 26.2.1 delivers new capabilities and marks a rare exception to security-patch norms, highlighting how Apple balances features with maintenance.

DJI RS 5 announced with Enhanced Tracking, 5th-gen stabilization, and one-hour fast charging

January 29, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. DJI announced the RS 5, the next-generation single-handed gimbal in the Ronin family. It introduces the RS Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module, enabling touchscreen tracking of people, vehicles, pets and objects. DJI says the module can lock on human subjects up to 10 meters away and re-acquire them if they exit the frame; it attaches magnetically without adapters, speeding setup for on-location shoots. Beneath the surface, the gimbal runs a 5th-generation stabilization algorithm that DJI says increases peak motor torque by 50% versus the RS 4, boosting stability in fast motion and vertical shooting. It weighs 1.46 kg with battery grip and quick-release plates, and it supports payloads up to 3 kg, preserving the compact form factor. The company also touts one-hour fast charging with improved efficiency.

AI poses bigger threat to women-dominated jobs, study finds

January 29, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Brookings Institution and the Centre for the Governance of AI warn that workers in women-dominated occupations face greater risk from AI disruption. The report, which blends public and private data, maps fields most exposed to automation and the likely fate of workers. It says more than 6 million employees could struggle to cope with AI-related job loss, with 86% of them women, many in clerical and administrative roles long dominated by women. The findings reflect the functions of these jobs, not their workers' competence, as Brookings notes. Others, such as marketing, finance and science, may offer paths to new roles with comparable pay. Still, the near-term impact on the U.S. labor market appears modest, echoing Oxford Economics projections that automation won't sharply raise unemployment yet.

Apple hires Halide co-founder Sebastiaan de With for design team

January 29, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Apple has hired Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of Lux and creator of iPhone photo apps such as Halide and Kino, to join its design team. This marks de With's return to Apple, where he previously contributed to iCloud and Find My after early design roles at Sony, T-Mobile and Mozilla. Co-founder Ben Sandofsky said Halide will continue to be developed by Lux, which this week released Halide Mark III preview and is emphasizing Looks, a feature to replicate the look of film cameras. De With announced the move on X. Apple's design leadership has undergone changes, including the departure of Alan Dye and Bloomberg reporting that John Ternus has assumed broader hardware-software design responsibilities.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leak previews pill-shaped camera island and display upgrades

January 29, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Leaked marketing renders for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra hint at a redesigned, pill-shaped camera island housing three of the four Ultra sensors, a shift from the S25's floating rings. Samsung reportedly keeps a quad-camera setup on the Ultra, while the base S26 and S26 Plus use three lenses. The renders from Evan Blass show a dedicated S-Pen slot and a magnetic ring for Qi2 wireless charging. Display chatter centers on a new Gorilla Glass generation that could remove the need for tempered glass protectors, along with Samsung's privacy screen to curb shoulder surfing and a Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) tech to boost brightness without draining battery. Ice Universe and others have floated these screen improvements; a price/power bump, and larger base storage have also been debated.

Most complex time crystal created inside IBM quantum computer

January 29, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Scientists used IBM's superconducting quantum computer to create a two-dimensional time crystal, a system in which the state repeats in time rather than space. The team, led by Nicolás Lorente at the Donostia International Physics Center, assembled 144 qubits in an interlocking honeycomb pattern and programmed their interactions to generate persistent cycles. This approach extends previous work on one-dimensional time crystals and lets researchers map the system's phase diagram-a map of all possible states the quantum material can have. The work also demonstrates time crystals can be studied with real quantum hardware, despite errors that still limit conventional simulations. IBM researchers, including Jamie Garcia not involved in the project, note the result could eventually help in designing new materials.

PopSockets adds built-in wallet to Kick-Out Grip

January 29, 2026, 11:20 AM EST. PopSockets has unveiled a new Kick-Out Grip variant with an integrated wallet-the Kick-Out PopWallet. The hinged grip folds out to become a stand and the wallet expands with it, holding up to three cards or IDs. It costs $49.99, about $10 more than the original Kick-Out Grip, and is sold online and at Best Buy. The wallet-stow design aims for stability in both vertical and horizontal viewing. It works with iPhones that use MagSafe and Android devices that support Qi2 Magnetic Power Profile, including Google Pixel 10 series. If magnets aren't available or a case is too thick, an adhesive metal ring can expand compatibility.

Musk says Tesla could have 2 million robotaxis in a year, but evidence points to far fewer

January 29, 2026, 11:14 AM EST. On Tesla's Q4 earnings call, Musk touted rapid growth for the Robotaxi program, suggesting a fleet that could reach into the hundreds and expand on an exponential curve. Public evidence, including vehicle tracking, points to far fewer than a nationwide rollout-roughly 200 cars across the Bay Area and Austin, with California restrictions limiting autonomous rides and Austin deployments moving from in-car operators to chase cars. Musk has previously promised broad U.S. coverage by year-end, a target that has not materialized. Independent analyses have questioned pace and visibility of driverless rides, noting safety incidents and regulatory hurdles. The result is a cautious outlook on a true, nationwide Robotaxi network in the near term.

Dow to cut about 4,500 jobs as AI and automation push grows

January 29, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. Dow Inc said it will cut about 4,500 jobs as it shifts toward AI and automation to simplify operations. The company projects $600 million to $800 million in severance costs tied to the cuts, part of a broad restructuring. Dow, based in Midland, Michigan, employs about 34,600 globally and said the plan targets cost savings over time. The move follows earlier targets: January 2025 for roughly $1 billion in savings and 1,500 job cuts, and July plant closures in Europe that eliminated 800 roles. As corporate layoff announcements mount this week, Dow's job-cut drive underscores a broader trend toward technology-driven efficiency, even as Americans face a cautious job market.

Apple Gemini deal reshapes Siri and services strategy for long-term holders

January 29, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. Apple has struck a multi-year deal with Alphabet to integrate Gemini AI into Siri and Apple Intelligence features. The partnership aims to deliver a more conversational, chatbot-like Siri across iPhone, iPad and Mac, signaling a shift toward external AI partnerships to refresh user experiences. For investors, the move reinforces a long-term ecosystem story, with potential upside from deeper iCloud, media and payments engagement and higher services revenue, even as it raises questions about margins and ongoing AI costs. The arrangement puts Gemini at the center of debates on growth versus profitability, while letting Apple compete with Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon in AI-powered services. Watch user engagement signals and monetization trends.

Amazon to cut about 16,000 roles as it refocuses on AI and reduces bureaucracy

January 29, 2026, 10:58 AM EST. Amazon said it will cut about 16,000 roles as part of an overhaul to thin management layers, boost ownership and remove bureaucracy, while continuing heavy investment in AI. The reductions affect teams still finalizing October's restructuring. Most U.S. employees with cut roles will have about 90 days to seek internal openings; others will receive severance and transition support. Senior vice president Beth Galetti said the plan isn't a signal of a recurring layoff cycle and that hiring will continue in strategic areas. The move follows a broader push into groceries, including expanding same-day delivery and shuttering some Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores, with some sites converted to Whole Foods Market outlets. Founder Jeff Bezos has become a major investor in AI through the Project Prometheus initiative, per The New York Times, which cited about $6.2 billion in funding.

Galaxy Z TriFold priced at $2,899 sparks value debate over alternatives

January 29, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold carries a $2,899 price tag, triggering a value debate. The author concedes the foldable could double as a phone and tablet, but questions the cost. Rather than a single gadget, the piece inventories what else that money could buy: productive gadgets to boost work output and luxuries to spoil oneself. The takeaway: you could assemble seven devices for less than the TriFold, underscoring a trade-off between convenience and spending. While the TriFold may stand among top foldables, the price invites alternatives that mix practicality with indulgence. Readers are urged to weigh utility against prestige and personal budgets.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Do Not Disturb bug disrupts silence mode

January 29, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. Samsung Galaxy Watch users report a bug that prevents Do Not Disturb from silencing alerts. When DND is enabled, notifications still appear on the watch, interrupting quiet moments. The fault has been observed across several watch models and after routine reboots, with some users noting intermittent fixes after toggling DND on and off. Samsung has not issued a public statement on the issue in the information available. Workarounds cited by users include disabling and re-enabling DND, unpairing and re-pairing the device, or updating to the latest software, though results vary. The bug adds to ongoing software reliability questions for Samsung's wearable lineup as the company pursues timely updates and clearer guidance for customers.

XTI Aerospace's Drone Nerds Adds DJI RS 5 Gimbal Stabilizer to Portfolio

January 29, 2026, 10:44 AM EST. XTI Aerospace's Drone Nerds subsidiary expands its professional gimbal lineup with the DJI RS 5. The stabilizer introduces intelligent tracking via the RS Enhanced Tracking Module, improved balancing and greater power efficiency for modern productions. It supports payloads up to 6.6 pounds (3 kg) and is compatible with a wide range of mirrorless cameras. Balancing is aided by fine-tuning knobs and Teflon™-enhanced interlayers; second-generation automated axis locks streamline setup and transport. Power features include a one-hour full charge with a 65W PD charger and the BG33 Battery Grip, with compatibility to the BG70 grip. The electronic briefcase handle offers integrated joystick controls for one-handed operation. Availability is through Drone Nerds' online store, as XTI scales its unmanned platform for enterprise and government customers.

Bigme B10 Color Tablet hits pre-order, features Kaleido 3 e-paper and Android 14

January 29, 2026, 10:42 AM EST. Bigme has opened pre-orders for the B10, its first color e-notebook of 2026. The 10.3-inch screen uses E INK Kaleido 3 color e-paper, with monochrome 2480×1860 at 300 PPI and color 1240×930 at 150 PPI. A front-lit system offers 36 warm and cool lights for night reading. The device runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 1020 octa-core processor with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, backed by a 6800 mAh battery and 46/LTE for calls and data. It includes a 20MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, USB-C, microSD, SIM, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, eight mics and GPS. Advertised as a drawing tablet with rich writing tools and a stylus offering 4906 levels of pressure. It ships with Android 14 and stores apps from Google Play, price $594 on the Bigme site.

Tesla restarts Dojo3 for space-based AI compute, Musk says

January 29, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Elon Musk announced over the long weekend that Tesla will restart Dojo3, the company's third-generation AI chip project, but for space-based AI compute rather than Earthbound self-driving training. Dojo was effectively shut down five months ago after lead Peter Bannon left; about 20 Dojo staff departed to DensityAI. In the past, Tesla leaned on Nvidia, AMD, and Samsung for compute and chipmaking, but Musk's post hints at a new path. He said AI5 remains in good shape; Samsung is manufacturing AI6. He invited engineers to join Dojo3, describing it as the 'highest volume chips in the world' project. The broader context includes Nvidia's Alpamayo model and talk of off-world data centers using SpaceX launch assets.

Nvidia and Meta in focus as AI-stock updates surface; Motley Fool disclosures

January 29, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. An investor briefing reviews recent developments around Nvidia and Meta Platforms among AI stocks, with a broader view of the sector. The Motley Fool's Stock Advisor program is cited, noting that Meta wasn't among its top picks, while previous selections such as Netflix and Nvidia produced outsized returns for early subscribers. The video highlights historical examples-$1,000 invested in 2004-2005 would have grown dramatically, per the presenter. It also touts Stock Advisor's claimed 950% average return versus 197% for the S&P 500. Disclosures accompany the piece: Jose Najarro holds positions in AMD, Meta, and Nvidia; The Motley Fool has positions in those firms and may compensate affiliates. The video notes after-hours pricing as of Jan. 28, 2026, and carries standard disclaimers about opinions not reflecting Nasdaq, Inc.

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro surfaces with bigger battery as launch nears

January 29, 2026, 10:28 AM EST. Nothing Phone (4a) Pro surfaces on the EU energy-label database, signaling a launch to come within weeks. The device shows a 5,080 mAh rated battery, up from 5,000 mAh in the Phone (3a) Pro and 3a. Real-world capacity likely around 5,100-5,200 mAh. The EU label also quotes a jump to 63+ hours of usage, versus just over 43 hours for the 3a Pro. Durability improves with IP65 dust/water resistance. The listing followed BIS certification in India, a sign the device is nearing release. GizmoChina first spotted the EU label. Last year, Nothing launched the 3a series on March 4.

AI Swarm Control Station Market 2026: Growth, Trends, and Key Players

January 29, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. The AI Swarm Control Station market is accelerating, rising from $2.01 billion in 2025 to $5.98 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 24.3%, driven by autonomous fleet management, real-time monitoring, and threat-detection algorithms. Notable trends include swarm coordination optimization, cloud-based swarm orchestration, and interoperability across multiple autonomous platforms. Elevated defense spending is expanding adoption, with North America currently leading and Asia-Pacific poised to be the fastest-growing region. Key players include Raytheon Technologies, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris, pursuing advanced multi-drone coordination systems. Nearthlab's XAiDEN demonstrates autonomous multi-drone control in defense missions. Strategic M&A, such as AeroVironment's 2025 BlueHalo acquisition, reshapes the landscape. Tariffs and trade relations threaten supply chains for critical components across North America and APAC.

GCT licenses 5G/4G chipsets to major satellite operator for direct-to-satellite connectivity

January 29, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. GCT Semiconductor Holding Inc. said it has licensed its 5G and 4G chipsets to one of the world's largest satellite communications providers. The deal lets the provider integrate the chipsets into its user equipment, enabling global, resilient, high-bandwidth connectivity across satellite and terrestrial networks. The agreement also sets a path for future chipset sales as the provider will use GCT's new 5G chipset to support direct-to-satellite applications within its network. Shipments of the 5G products tied to this initiative are expected to start in the second half of this year. CEO John Schlaefer described the collaboration as advancing 5G-to-space networks and broader coverage, aiming for always-on connectivity worldwide.

Tesla restarts Dojo 3 development as AI5 design stabilizes

January 29, 2026, 9:42 AM EST. Tesla has resumed work on its Dojo 3 in-house AI training supercomputer as its AI5 chip design reaches a stable stage, CEO Elon Musk said in a post on X. The company said the move follows Musk's note that the AI5 design is in good shape and that Dojo 3 could become the highest-volume AI chip effort. Musk invited engineers to apply at [email protected] and asked applicants to submit three bullet points on the toughest problems solved. He outlined the broader roadmap: AI4 will boost self-driving safety beyond human levels, AI5 will make cars almost perfect and aid Optimus, AI6 targets data center use, and AI7/Dojo3 will be space-based AI compute. The update comes after Musk's earlier comments reconciling Dojo's future with resource allocation.

DJI unveils RS 5 lightweight gimbal with enhanced tracking

January 29, 2026, 9:38 AM EST. DJI unveiled the RS 5, a lightweight gimbal in its Ronin family. Weighing about three pounds, it carries up to a seven-pound payload and includes an updated tracking module with a touchscreen for framing and following subjects without touching the camera. The system promises broader subject tracking-people, pets and vehicles-and a new stabilization algorithm for complex moves, including surround shots and fixed-camera tracking. It supports a wide range of mirrorless cameras, can switch to vertical shooting without extra gear, and includes a briefcase-style handle. Battery life reaches up to 14 hours per charge, with a one-hour full recharge; the optional battery grip extends runtime to 30 hours. Pricing: standard pack about $680; combo around $859. No US release date yet; DJI did not confirm availability amid import bans on drones.

Samsung working on patch for Galaxy Watch Do Not Disturb bug after One UI 8 Watch update

January 29, 2026, 9:34 AM EST. Galaxy Watch users report a Do Not Disturb (DND) bug where activating DND on the watch only stays on for a few seconds before turning off. Samsung acknowledged the issue and said a proper patch is in development. For now, users can enable DND from their connected phone, which mirrors on the watch, or toggle DND in the watch settings as a workaround. The problem spans Galaxy Watch 4 through 8 and emerged after updates, including One UI 8 Watch on some devices, according to posts on Samsung Community spotted by SammyGuru and corroborating reports in forums. Samsung moderators have described band-aid fixes and timelines for an official fix. The issue echoes prior Wear OS bugs affecting third-party faces, but the core DND bug remains the priority.

Samsung targets 1 million Wide Fold units in first year, sources say

January 29, 2026, 9:32 AM EST. Samsung is planning to launch a new foldable phone tentatively named the Galaxy Wide Fold, featuring a 4:3 foldable display. Supply-chain sources say the company aims to sell at least 1 million units this year, making it a full member of the Galaxy foldable lineup. The device is expected to be released alongside the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 this summer. The plan underscores Samsung's confidence that the Wide Fold could boost overall foldable demand, after reportedly selling about 6 million units of the Galaxy Z Fold7 last year. People familiar with the matter describe the name and timing as tentative.

iPhone 16 leads global smartphone sales in 2025 as Apple captures seven of the top 10 models

January 29, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Counterpoint Research said the iPhone 16 was the world's best-selling smartphone in 2025, with Apple occupying seven of the top ten models. The findings reflect sustained demand for Apple's flagship lineup amid fierce competition from Android devices. The study tracks global shipments and confirms Apple's ability to convert new releases into broad mass-market sales. Counterpoint Research cautioned that quarterly shifts in demand and product cycles can alter ranking, but the 2025 snapshot demonstrates Apple's dominant position across premium and midrange segments.

Prediction: Two AI infrastructure stocks set to ride $1.4 trillion spend in 2026

January 29, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Global AI infrastructure spending is seen surging in 2026, with Gartner forecasting a nearly 42% jump to about $1.4 trillion. The focus is on the compute backbone of AI: hyperscalers, chipmakers, and data centers. The article highlights two beneficiaries. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) dominates as a 'prime pick-and-shovel' supplier, manufacturing chips for AI data centers used by Nvidia, Broadcom, Qualcomm and others. Management signaled roughly 30% revenue growth for 2026, outpacing 2025. Potential price moves on advanced nodes, including 2-nm chips, could lift margins. The second beneficiary noted is Alphabet, which could unlock new growth from internal AI chips. The piece frames these names as how the AI investment cycle could translate into earnings, with a focus on data center demand and pricing power.

AI in Satellite Internet Market 2026-2030: $8.91 Billion by 2030, 28.7% CAGR

January 29, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. Global market for AI in satellite internet is expanding. The market rose from $2.52 billion in 2025 to $3.25 billion in 2026, a 29% CAGR, and is forecast to reach $8.91 billion by 2030 (28.7% CAGR). Driving factors include autonomous satellite management, AI-powered antennas, and real-time signal processing for bandwidth allocation and optimization, per GlobeNewswire and ResearchAndMarkets. North America was the largest market in 2025; Asia-Pacific is expected to grow fastest. Mergers reshape the landscape, notably SES S.A.'s $3.1 billion Intelsat acquisition. Startups like Xovian Aerospace are embedding AI onboard for real-time RF analysis, aiming for a 2025 satellite launch. The trend signals rising demand for AI-enabled resilience in remote connectivity.

AI's wealth boost favors the wealthy, keeps K-shaped economy in place through 2035

January 29, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. AI has delivered more than a 7% uplift in U.S. household wealth, but the gains have largely flowed to the high-income, reinforcing a K-shaped economy that is likely to persist through about 2035, according to Oxford Economics CEO Innes McFee. The wealth effect from AI-driven asset gains lifts spending while leaving the bottom 50% far behind the top 0.1%-the share of total wealth shows the gap remains wide. Moody's Mark Zandi noted the economy has been driven by sentiments of the well-to-do. Some day, productivity gains at the low end could narrow gaps via an S-curve of adoption, but officials say tangible relief may be distant, perhaps beyond five to ten years.

AI race challenges smartphone duopoly as new devices emerge

January 29, 2026, 9:16 AM EST. AI giants aim to move beyond the traditional smartphone, fueling a race to overturn the current duopoly of Apple and Google. The Economist notes the contest to unseat smartphones as the dominant digital gateway. OpenAI plans a device in the second half of the year, while Meta builds AI-powered smart glasses and Amazon extends its Alexa+ voice assistant to its Echo family, glasses, and earbuds. Disruptors argue the app-store model, charging up to 30% commissions, and data-hoovering concerns show why incumbents resist. Experts say AI assistants will automate tasks and reduce the need to navigate menus, potentially shifting users to ambient computing networks, wearable AI pendants, and reimagined watches. The result: smartphones could become passé.

AI capex wave set to slow as analysts warn technology spending may cool

January 29, 2026, 9:10 AM EST. Tech stock futures rose before the open as Meta, Microsoft and Tesla signalled ongoing AI capex. Meta could spend about $135 billion this year, nearly doubling 2024. Tesla plans to double capex in 2026 as it shifts toward AI and robotics, including $2 billion in Elon Musk's xAI. Microsoft reported $72.4 billion in the first half of its fiscal year, with Azure growth slowing and a share retreat. Samsung and SK Hynix pledged higher AI-related capex, while OpenAI drew $40 billion in fresh funding from Nvidia, Microsoft and Amazon for data centers. Goldman Sachs pegs AI capex at $539 billion in 2026-27; Bank of America sees $641 billion this year, $739 billion next year, with growth likely decelerating.

DJI RS 5 gimbal debuts with improved subject tracking and longer battery life

January 29, 2026, 9:06 AM EST. DJI announced the RS 5, a lighter, professional gimbal in the Ronin line, with improved tracking, stability and longer battery life. The new RS Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module can track subjects from the touchscreen and maintain focus on a person up to 10 meters away, re-acquiring quickly if needed; it installs magnetically with no adapters. The fifth-generation RS Stabilization Algorithm delivers 50% more peak motor torque for smoother motion, including vertical video. Weight is 1.46 kg with grip; payloads up to 3 kg. A Sony a7 V with FE 24-70 GM II sits around 1.4 kg, leaving headroom for bigger rigs. Design adds the Electronic Briefcase Handle, a Z-Axis Indicator and precision knobs with Teflon. Fast charge in 1 hour; runtime 14 hours, 30 hours with the BG70 grip. Bluetooth shutter now supports Panasonic and Fujifilm cameras.

Tesla's Gen 3 Optimus to enter mass-production prep, reveal set for Q1 2026

January 29, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. Tesla says its Gen 3 (third-generation) humanoid robot, Optimus, designed for mass production (high-volume output), will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2026 as the company builds its first production line by year's end. Tesla aims for up to one million robots per year capacity and plans to convert the Fremont factory space to humanoid production. CEO Elon Musk has floated uses from factory automation to home assistance and even surgery, though critics point to past rollout missteps and leadership turnover in robotics. The disclosure, in an earnings report, frames Optimus as a long-term business driver rather than a near-term cash crop. Investors will monitor whether the plan translates into tangible deployments and revenue.

Google rolls out Gemini pane in Chrome to automate browsing with an AI agent

January 29, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Google has added a Gemini side panel to Chrome to enable AI-assisted browsing. The feature, dubbed Chrome auto browse, lets Gemini act as a software agent for select subscribers of AI Pro and AI Ultra. The side panel shrinks the page to accommodate chat with Gemini, enabling multi-step tasks such as researching options and adding items to a cart within a single workflow. Parisa Tabriz, Chrome VP, says the tool can save time and multitask without interrupting primary work. The integration extends to Google Nano Banana for image creation or edits and to Connected Apps, including Google Workspace, calendar, YouTube Music and Maps. Google also plans Personal Intelligence for Chrome to retain past interactions if opted in.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide release date confirmed, new design ahead of Unpacked

January 29, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. ET News confirms Samsung will unveil the Wide Fold variant of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 at the summer Unpacked event. The launch is pegged for Q3 2026, with a possible July release alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8. Production is expected to reach about 1 million units, signaling solid demand. The Wide Fold is a separate model from the standard Fold 8. It features a 4:3 aspect ratio, a 7.6-inch inner display when unfolded, and a 5.4-inch cover screen, yielding a squarer form factor than earlier folds. Samsung is addressing the tall screen critique as it faces competition from Apple's iPhone Fold.

Why the Galaxy Z TriFold at $2,900 is hard to justify against Samsung ecosystem bundles

January 29, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. The Galaxy Z TriFold carries a $2,900 price tag, a number that sparked debate. The author argues the device offers folding form but little value at that cost, especially next to a full Samsung ecosystem that could be bought for less. A suggested lineup – Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy Watch Ultra, Buds 3 Pro, and Book 5 360 – totals about $2,720, delivering flagship performance across a phone, watch, earbuds and a Windows laptop. The TriFold's claimed advantage is a 10-inch tablet-in-a-pocket form factor, but the analysis shows better value in separate devices with comparable specs. A reader poll reflected mixed opinions: most think $2,900 is excessive, while a minority defend price as innovation.

iOS 26.3 release schedule tightens to February after 26.2.1 surprise

January 29, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. Apple's next iPhone update, iOS 26.3, has shifted from January to February after a surprise iOS 26.2.1 release. Analysts pegged Jan. 26 as the target, but a new beta cadence emerged: Apple released the third developer beta of iOS 26.3 and a public beta the next day. A Release Candidate appears likely for bigger updates, which would push the general rollout to early February. The ballpark is now: perhaps Feb. 4 as the earliest date, or around Feb. 9 for a broader release. Apple is also priming iOS 26.4 with the new Siri and Apple Intelligence, and the 26.2.1 update carried bug fixes and no security issues. The focus remains AirTag-related improvements and stability.

Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: best sales ahead of kickoff

January 29, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. TV shoppers can use the weeks before the Super Bowl to score deals as prices trend downward after new models arrive. Some 2026 sets were unveiled at CES, making this a window for discounts on 2025 models. Deals span budget and premium tiers, from under $500 sets to OLEDs that clock in hundreds off. Under $500: Hisense 32-inch A4 1080p for $98; Roku 24-inch for $100; Roku 55-inch 4K for $248; TCL 75-inch S5 for $480. OLED picks: LG 55-inch B5 for $847; Samsung 65-inch S95F for $2,298; Sony 77-inch A95L for $3,498. In the $500-plus range: TCL 65-inch T7 $500; Hisense 65-inch U6 Mini LED $550; Amazon 65-inch Fire TV Omni Mini LED $920; TCL QM8K $998. Peripherals and streaming devices complete the setup.

Tesla, Meta, Microsoft Q4 earnings signal winners in the AI race

January 29, 2026, 8:28 AM EST. Tesla, Meta, and Microsoft posted fourth-quarter results that spotlight divergent AI bets and who may win the race. Microsoft framed AI as a driver for Azure cloud services and the Copilot assistant, evidencing durable demand for enterprise compute. Meta highlighted investments in large-language models and AI-powered ads and content tools, aiming to defend its advertising franchise. Tesla reiterated emphasis on autonomous driving and robotics, tying software progress to margin growth. Analysts say the earnings show AI compute costs and model development are costly but essential to future revenue. The results also underscored the winner's circle will combine software platforms, cloud capacity, and hardware considerations, with chips and data centers expanding. In short, the AI race remains interdisciplinary across software, cloud, and hardware.

Apple accelerates AI push with Apple Intelligence for Macs and devices

January 29, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Credible reports say Apple is close to delivering the 2024 promise to embed intelligent agents across iPhone, iPad and Mac by licensing Google's Gemini. The effort is branded as Apple Intelligence and aims to put AI helpers into everyday tasks. It harks back to Steve Jobs's idea of computing as an appliance-simple, self-contained devices that require little or no manual. Today, the iPhone home screen hints at peak simplicity even as devices grow more powerful and complex. Proponents argue a lean AI layer could streamline workflows; critics warn about privacy, vendor lock-in and feature bloat. If realized, the approach would mark a consumer-first Mac ethos, tempered by modern AI capabilities.

SoundHound AI stock slides 49% in 2024; what next for this AI-conversation play?

January 29, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. SoundHound AI stock slid 49% in 2024 as investors reassessed its lofty valuation. The developer of conversational AI software is expanding a portfolio used by brands in hospitality, automotive, healthcare, and more. Its Voice AI for car makers lets brands ship a custom, branded assistant; Dynamic Drive-Thru and Dynamic Kiosk automate orders; and Employee Assist provides a voice-activated worker handbook. After acquiring Amelia in 2024, SoundHound offers Amelia 7 to build client-specific AI agents, with BNP Paribas using NOA to update clients on investments. Management projects 2025 revenue of $165 million to $180 million, implying about 103% growth to about $172.5 million. However, rising marketing and admin costs have pressured margins. Q4 results due in February will gauge whether growth can outpace spending.

iOS 26.3 Beta 3 focuses on stability with 11GB download, bug fixes, and privacy tweaks

January 29, 2026, 8:22 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.3 Beta 3, released alongside updates for iPadOS and others, prioritizes stability over new features. The update, about 11 GB with build 23D5114D, targets under-the-hood refinements for better performance while developers test app compatibility. Notable fixes include Notification Center improvements on the lock screen when Focus Mode is active and stronger HomeKit responsiveness. Apple also introduces a location-privacy measure that caps precise location sharing with cellular networks, available on select carriers and regions, and hardware such as newer iPhone/iPad modems. A separate improvement simplifies wireless data transfer from iPhone to Android, easing transitions for users moving between ecosystems.

Nvidia CEO visits Taiwan as Micron courted to lead the AI memory era

January 29, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. During a visit by Nvidia's chief executive, Taiwan's president signaled that Micron Technology should lead the AI memory era, aiming to deepen ties with the island's semiconductor ecosystem. The push centers on Micron's DRAM and next-generation memory chips used in data centers and AI workloads, with government backing to boost domestic production and secure supply for global customers. The stance reflects Taiwan's broader strategy to attract critical chip manufacturing amid U.S.-China tech rivalry and rising demand for memory capacity. Analysts say the arrangement could bolster Micron's footprint in Asia while reinforcing Taiwan's role as a memory hub. The talks come as AI acceleration raises scrutiny of supply chains and the need for reliable access to high-performance memory.

Exclusive: Tesla Model S completes Los Angeles to New York trip with no human intervention

January 29, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. A nine-year wait ends as a 2024 Tesla Model S travels from Los Angeles to New York City with no driver input. The coast-to-coast run covered 3,081 miles in 58 hours and 22 minutes at an average of 64 mph, far slower than earlier attempts. The team relied on FSD software running on HW4 with version 14.2.2.3, and charged for about 10 hours and 11 minutes. Detours and winter weather forced deviations, yet the car completed the journey with only one disengagement, according to owner Alex Roy. The feat revisits Musk's pledge and raises questions about real-world reliability of autonomous tech in varied conditions.

Factbox-India's vast internet and social media market buoys global platforms

January 29, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. India's total internet users reached about 1.02 billion by September 2025, up from 250 million in 2014. The country is the world's No. 2 smartphone market, with 750 million devices, and hosts about 500 million unique social media users per DataReportal. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat together account for most activity (rough figures: YouTube ~500 million, Facebook 403 million, Instagram 481 million, Snapchat 213 million); X has about 22 million users. Average monthly data use per person jumped to roughly 24 GB in 2025, from 62 MB in 2014, aided by a price of about 10 cents per GB-one of the lowest globally. Indians spend around 3.2 hours daily on social media. About 24% of the population is under 14; a 2024 survey found ~90% of 14-16-year-olds have home smartphones, and 76% used social media vs 57% for education.

West Virginia regulators could rule on internet service under new bill

January 29, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. Tim Wicinski, an Elkins resident who remote-works for a cable company, chose town limits for faster, more reliable internet service. His experience echoes a broader concern in rural West Virginia, where service quality trails urban areas. A new bill would give state regulators authority to weigh in on internet service rules, setting standards for access, reliability and possibly pricing. The measure comes as lawmakers highlight the digital divide and the need for consistent broadband in sparsely populated counties. Sen. Craig Hart, R-Mingo, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, helped move the bill during a Jan. 21, 2026 session at the State Capitol. The proposal could reshape oversight of broadband in the state.

Tesla CEO Musk Signals Progress on Robotaxis, Humanoid Robots, and Europe FSD Approval

January 29, 2026, 7:44 AM EST. Tesla's latest updates come as Musk touts progress in autonomous driving and humanoid robots. The company has faced a year of tougher competition, branding issues and a drop in EV demand. Tesla deliveries fell 9% in 2025, even as global EV sales rose about 25%. Critics note its robotaxis push relies on a camera-only approach, contrasting with lidar-equipped rivals; Musk says the strategy should accelerate scaling since no city mapping is required. In Austin, Tesla reportedly began robotaxi rides with no safety monitor in the car, while the Bay Area still uses one. The company has permits to test in Arizona and Nevada and aims to launch in five new markets: Las Vegas, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, and Miami. Separately, FSD could win Europe approval as early as February 2026, after the Netherlands decision, enabling EU-wide adoption.

Tesla ends basic Autopilot in US and Canada, steers buyers to FSD subscription

January 29, 2026, 7:42 AM EST. Tesla has ended the basic Autopilot driver-assist in the United States and Canada, pushing customers toward its higher-priced Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription. New cars now ship with Traffic Aware Cruise Control only; Autosteer is no longer listed as standard. Starting Feb 14, FSD moves from a one-time $8,000 purchase to a $99-a-month subscription, with price increases likely as capabilities grow. California's DMV pressured Tesla to drop the Autopilot label to curb consumer confusion and threatened a sales-license suspension. Tesla has not offered a detailed public rationale. CEO Elon Musk signaled rising subscription costs over time, while CFO Vaibhav Taneja noted only about 12% of customers had bought FSD previously. Regulators and investors watch the plan as a potential future profit driver.

Tesla's Robotaxi Bait and Switch

January 29, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. From a San Francisco robotaxi ride, the column contrasts two emerging narratives in mobility. Waymo already operates in six American cities and last spring hit a milestone of about a million fully autonomous rides per month; a birth occurred inside one last month, underscoring how deeply these services are embedding themselves. In Austin, Tesla's nascent robotaxi program has begun offering fully autonomous rides to ordinary passengers, fueling online hype after a viral video. The juxtaposition is telling: scale and experience against a few high-profile trials. The piece cautions against treating a single city's early rides as a definitive turning point for autonomous cars, urging readers to weigh safety, regulatory realities, and the lessons that come with real-world data over spectacle.

NASA, SpaceX push Crew-12 launch to Feb. 11 after Crew-11 medical evacuation

January 29, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. NASA has moved the Crew-12 launch to Feb. 11 to deliver a relief crew to the International Space Station after Crew-11 departed Jan. 14 in the station's first medical evacuation. The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule "Grace" and a Falcon 9 rocket will lift off from Cape Canaveral at 6:00 a.m. EST, with backup windows on Feb. 12 and Feb. 13. The crew-Jessica Meir (commander) and Jack Hathaway (pilot) for NASA, plus Sophie Adenot of the ESA and Andrey Fedyaev of Roscosmos-will join ISS Expedition 74 and stay for nine months, longer than the usual six. Fedyaev replaces Oleg Artemyev, who was pulled from Crew-12 in December, reportedly for security reasons.

AirTag 2 vs AirTag 1: Key differences, pricing and how to tell generations

January 29, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. Apple's second-generation AirTag largely mirrors the first, but with a subtler upgrade. The price remains $29 for a single tag and $99 for a four-pack, though third-party retailers may discount older stock. The two generations look the same; the second-gen weighs 11.8 grams vs 11 grams for the original, and both use a CR2032 battery lasting about a year. Identification hinges on edge text: all caps on the second-gen plus FIND MY, NFC, and IP67 markings, while the first-gen uses sentence-case wording like Designed by Apple in California. The big difference is the upgraded Ultra Wideband chip enabling Precision Finding. Apple says both include UWB, but the newer chip improves location accuracy.

Pixel 9a deal: Save $100, now $499 at Amazon

January 29, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. Deal price and timing: The Google Pixel 9a is discounted by $100, bringing the price to $499 at Amazon as of Jan. 29, 2026. The discount covers roughly a 17% cut from the list price. Mashable's Lois Mackenzie notes the offer is subject to change and may vary by retailer. The Pixel 9a is a midrange Android phone known for solid cameras and a clean software experience, appealing to budget buyers seeking a current Google device. As always with limited-time promos, verify stock, lock in the price at checkout, and beware potential shipping or tax additions. This report reflects the editorial selection from Mashable, with pricing and availability liable to change after publication.

Nvidia backs CoreWeave with US$2 billion as Applied Digital advances Delta Forge AI data center

January 29, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. U.S. chipmaker Nvidia commits US$2 billion to CoreWeave, a key customer and partner of Applied Digital (NasdaqGS: APLD), linking Nvidia's funding to CoreWeave's capacity plans and Applied Digital's data center services. Delta Forge 1, Applied Digital's new AI data center campus, targets surging AI compute demand as part of a broader ecosystem where chip makers, cloud platforms and operators align on capacity. Investors should watch contract visibility with CoreWeave, build-out timelines and how quickly new capacity is utilized. Nvidia's backing underscores demand for high-power AI data centers central to Delta Forge 1. Risks cited include shareholder dilution, volatile share price and insider selling. A fuller picture depends on capacity utilization, contract terms and earnings movement relative to a steep valuation.

Microsoft AI spend spooks investors as cloud growth slows

January 29, 2026, 7:16 AM EST. Microsoft posted $37.5 billion in capital expenditures for the quarter, up 66% from a year earlier, with roughly two-thirds spent on GPUs and CPUs. The news sent the stock down about 7%, as investors weighed signs of heavy, ongoing AI spending against slower return on investment. Cloud revenue grew 39% this quarter, down from 40% in the prior period, with CFO Amy Hood saying part of the gap reflected internal allocation of GPUs and cloud capacity to Microsoft teams while external demand remains robust. Investors also flagged the company's reliance on OpenAI: about 45% of remaining cloud commitments come from OpenAI. OpenAI's booming, multi-trillion-dollar deal flow contrasts with its $20 billion annualized revenue, prompting questions about profitability and the risk of an AI-driven market bubble and its broader economic impact.

Electrek reports chase cars tailing Tesla Robotaxis, raising questions about driverless progress

January 29, 2026, 7:10 AM EST. Tesla's Robotaxi program, launched last year with safety monitors in front seats, faces renewed scrutiny after Electrek reports monitors now ride in a following car rather than inside the cab. A Tesla enthusiast's vlog shows two black Teslas trailing a red Robotaxi, described as a chase car used for validation. Electrek frames this as a workaround that preserves the appearance of progress while the company inches toward fully driverless testing. Tesla has struggled with software and safety, with accidents and interventions by monitors. Musk has promised Austin service without a monitor and repeated timelines-more than 1,000 Robotaxis in the fleet within months and over a million self-driving Teslas by 2026-but the latest update highlights no monitor in the car, not tailing. Critics say the arrangement misleads fans and investors about actual autonomy.

Motorola Signature aims for premium smartphone market with AI concierge and high-end specs

January 29, 2026, 7:00 AM EST. Motorola unveiled the Signature, a premium smartphone aimed at the high end, challenging the Pixel 10, Galaxy S25, OnePlus 14 and iPhone 17. It sports a 6.8-inch Extreme AMOLED display, IP69 water resistance, up to 1TB of storage and 16GB RAM, and a quad-camera system led by a 50MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical and 100x digital zoom. It records 8K/30fps and 4K/60fps, with a 5200mAh Silicon-Carbon battery and 90W wired plus 50W wireless charging. Motorola emphasizes AI-driven features and a concierge service, the Signature Club. A Pantone collaboration yields two finishes-Martini Olive and Carbon-with a tactile twill texture. Price starts at £899.99.

SpaceX launches GPS III-9 national-security satellite from Cape Canaveral after weather delay

January 29, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. SpaceX finally flew a Falcon 9 rocket to orbit on a national-security mission, lifting off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station after weather postponed a previous attempt. The 11:53 p.m. launch from Launch Complex 40 sent the GPS III-9 satellite into medium-Earth orbit for the Space Force. The mission underscores the ongoing push to refresh the military's navigation satellite constellation. Weather had hampered earlier plans, but the successful flight marks another high-profile Florida launch for SpaceX in recent years.

Nvidia wins approval for Taiwan headquarters to secure AI chip supply

January 29, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Taiwan cleared Nvidia to establish a NT$3.3 billion (US$105 million) headquarters to feed the global AI chip supply. The Ministry of Economic Affairs said the site will host a commercial office and land purchase for a comprehensive business park. Analysts note Nvidia, a key TSMC client after overtaking Apple, must lock in capacity as demand for AI-enabled chips grows for data centers and cloud services. The move underscores Taiwan's central role in the AI hardware ecosystem. TSMC dominates advanced semiconductors, producing at or below the 5-nanometer node and accounting for roughly 70% of global chip output last year, according to Counterpoint Research.

Stanford's optical-cavity breakthrough moves toward million-qubit quantum networks

January 29, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. Stanford researchers unveiled a novel optical cavity design that captures single photons emitted by atoms, enabling parallel readout from many qubits. In Nature, the team reports a 40-cavity array with one atom per cavity and a larger prototype surpassing 500 cavities, suggesting a path to quantum networks of up to one million qubits. Senior author Jon Simon notes that fast, scalable readout has long constrained quantum computers because atoms emit light slowly and isotropically. The cavities guide emitted photons into a chosen direction, letting each atom reside in its own cavity. The approach leverages microlens-based cavities to strengthen light-atom interaction, potentially bridging practical photonic quantum computing and larger-scale quantum networks.

DeepSeek Expands AI Search Push With Multimodal Features, AGI Hiring

January 29, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. Bloomberg reports that DeepSeek is broadening its AI search and agents strategy, hiring specialists to build a multimodal search engine that handles text, images, and audio across languages. The postings describe needs for training data, evaluation systems, and platforms to support persistent agents with limited human input. The company's prior R1 model, released last year, was pitched as a cheaper rival to Western options. A December paper outlined a more efficient development approach, and developers have spotted a vague 'model1' reference on GitHub. The postings signal DeepSeek's ambition to reach AGI capabilities, alongside peers like OpenAI, as it expands beyond chatbots toward task-oriented services. DeepSeek did not respond to requests for comment.

Macworld Podcast 968: AirTag, Apple Creator Studio and more Apple news

January 29, 2026, 6:44 AM EST. Macworld's weekly podcast, episode 968, surveys this week's Apple news, led by hosts Michael Simon, Jason Cross and Roman Loyola. Apple released a new AirTag and introduced Apple Creator Studio, plus other updates. The show features listener mail on pricing for creator tools and a discussion about a touchscreen MacBook Pro concept that could bring hover and stylus features to the trackpad. In the historical segment, January 27, 2010, marked the original iPad announcement, with PCWorld's review calling it 'a big iPod Touch.' The episode is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Translation in the AI era: tools aid, culture matters, jobs at risk

January 29, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. AI tools offer helpful support to translators, boosting efficiency. In novels, however, AI often misses cultural nuance, leaving translation that can feel flat. The debate over jobs security continues: some say work remains safe, while others have already lost assignments to automation. Observers see mixed outcomes: technical translation gains from machine aid; literary work still requires human judgement. As AI advances, agencies weigh blending machine speed with human oversight, emphasizing training and quality controls. The discussion shows technology reshapes translation but does not uniformly replace human craft across genres.

UK minister says universal basic income could soften AI job losses

January 29, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Investment Minister Jason Stockwood told the Financial Times that the UK might need a universal basic income to cushion workers amid rapid AI disruption. He described society's 'bumpy' changes and proposed a concessionary arrangement for jobs that disappear, plus a lifelong retraining mechanism. He stressed that a UBI is not government policy, but ministers are discussing it. The remarks come as Morgan Stanley data show the UK losing more jobs to AI than it creates. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has warned of mass unemployment in the capital. Stockwood, a tech executive by background, says his aim is to prepare the workforce for fast change. He followed Poppy Gustafsson as investment minister.

Ex-Tesla AI chief warns manual coding skills atrophying as AI advances

January 29, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. An ex-Tesla AI chief told Business Insider that rising use of automated tools is eroding manual coding skills. The claim sits at the center of a wider industry debate about how generative AI and code-assist speed software development while potentially dulling traditional coding craft. The former Tesla leader warned that engineers may drift toward higher-level tasks as hand-coding becomes rarer, prompting reassessment of hiring, training, and performance metrics. Observers say tooling improvements could redefine skill sets, blending human judgment with AI rather than replacing engineers. The piece highlights a tension between productivity gains and the maintenance of core programming proficiency, a trend shaping tech hiring in the near term.

FuriLabs Convergence Hub turns smartphones into a PC replacement with 8 ports

January 29, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. FuriLabs unveils the Convergence Hub, a dock that lets a smartphone double as a PC replacement with 8 ports. It includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a USB-C port with Power Delivery (PD), two more USB-C ports and a USB-A port, plus Ethernet for wired networking. It provides HDMI and mini-HDMI outputs for external displays. The hub uses a Synaptics DL-6950 DisplayLink chipset and can drive 4K at 60Hz monitors. It is now available from the manufacturer's store at $89 plus shipping and potential import fees for international buyers. Promotional terms: FLX1 owners who publish a review on social media can receive the dock for free by contacting support; FLX1 users get a 50% discount.

Tesla posts first annual revenue decline as energy storage, services cushion 2025 drop

January 29, 2026, 6:28 AM EST. Tesla posted 2025 results showing its first annual revenue decline. In Q4, automotive revenues fell 11% to $17.7 billion, as fourth-quarter sales lagged the prior year. The quarter still delivered 20% higher operating profit, yet net income dropped 61% to $840 million, pressed by higher costs and a $542 million boost from regulatory credits (carbon credits) in the year-ago period. For full-year 2025, total revenue was $69.5 billion, down 10% from 2024. Growth came from energy storage at $12.7 billion, up 27%, and services at $12.5 billion, up 19%, diversifying the mix as automotive remains dominant. Annual vehicle deliveries were about 1.636 million.

WhatsApp rolls out 'Strict Account Settings' to shield high-risk users

January 29, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. WhatsApp is rolling out Strict Account Settings, a lockdown-style option for journalists, public figures and other high-risk users. It sits atop end-to-end encryption, adding extreme safeguards for those facing sophisticated threats. Enabling it from the primary device under Settings > Privacy > Advanced applies the most restrictive controls: mandatory two-step verification, blocking media and attachments from unknown senders, silencing unknown calls, turning off link previews, and locking access to last seen, online status, profile photo, About, and profile links. It also limits features that could aid attackers. WhatsApp says the feature is for the very few who may be targeted, not for most users. Rollout is gradual; the firm is migrating code to Rust to strengthen protection against spyware. Context: Pegasus-style attacks, patches, and NSO-related actions.

Galaxy S26 may omit built-in magnetic charging; leaks point to case magnets and 25W wireless charging

January 29, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. Leaked photos of a Samsung charger hint the Galaxy S26 series will not include native magnetic wireless charging. The packaging shows a 25W Qi2 magnetic charger, but the fine print says it requires a Qi2-ready case to enable charging, implying magnets may reside in accessories rather than the phone. Case renders from UAG echo this idea, showing back magnets in the cases. If true, the S26 would not gain built-in magnets, though 25W wireless charging could remain for some models. Earlier talk of a major upgrade for the Galaxy S26 Ultra now looks less likely on this point. Samsung is expected to unveil the series on February 25. Leaks come from SamMobile and Evan Blass, among others.

Adobe and Figma: AI arms race reshapes design software bets

January 29, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. Adobe is weaving AI into its design suite, seeking to keep a broad moat as rivals harness AI to accelerate content creation. The company supports more than 25 AI models and launched Firefly, an in-house platform trained on Adobe-owned content to avoid copyright issues. Adobe reports rising engagement, with MAU up 15% year over year in its 2025 fiscal year, plus a record Q4 revenue of $6.2 billion and net income of $1.9 billion. Management highlighted strong ARR growth and multimillion-dollar bookings. By contrast, Figma is pushing AI as a core tool after its IPO, with a history of antitrust tension around a prior takeover approach. The debate: will AI widen Adobe's lead or empower Figma to close the gap?

ServiceNow expands AI partnerships with Anthropic and OpenAI, signaling potential for undervalued shares

January 29, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. ServiceNow is deepening its AI partnerships with Anthropic and OpenAI to embed Claude and other models into core enterprise workflows. The company is rolling out AI-driven workflows and industry solutions at scale, with deployments at Panasonic Avionics and Fiserv. Management cites shorter implementation and onboarding times as early results. For investors, the story is how the platform is used, not quarterly noise. The stock (NYSE: NOW) closed around $129.62, up about 3.4% last week; three-year return near 37%, but annual and year-to-date returns are negative, framing AI initiatives as a potential catalyst to reassert dominance in enterprise software. Longer-term, expansions bolster its position for AI-heavy transformations across industries, with investors watching adoption, revenue, margins, and a high P/E that leaves little room for missteps.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G review: near bezel design, IP68 and long battery life under €400

January 29, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. Xiaomi's Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G delivers a strong mid-range package for under €400. It uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offers IP68 water and dust protection, and a nearly borderless, straight display. In real-world WLAN testing, it lasts about 30 hours on a charge, and Xiaomi promises six years of security updates. The device also packs a bright AMOLED screen, a capable main camera, usable speakers, and SBAS for improved location accuracy. The chassis feels sturdy but can creak under heavy twist, and the SoC throttles only modestly. Gaming hits around 40 fps on demanding titles. It shows PWM flicker, mitigated by DC dimming. Overall, the Note 15 Pro 5G keeps pressure on rivals in this price tier and could be a bestseller again.

Google adds Gemini-powered AI features to Chrome with persistent sidebar and autonomous tasks

January 29, 2026, 6:06 AM EST. Google is integrating Gemini into Chrome with a persistent AI sidebar that lets users ask about the current site and open tabs. The feature treats multiple tabs as a context group for tasks like price comparisons. After a Windows/macOS debut, the rollout extends to Chromebook Plus devices. A new personal intelligence function links to Gmail, Search, YouTube and Google Photos, enabling asks about personal data and the ability to draft emails without leaving Chrome. A Nano Banana image-editing tool layers new visuals over existing ones. The centerpiece, auto-browse, would navigate sites to complete tasks, seeking user input for sensitive steps. The rollout targets AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the U.S., with real-world reliability still evolving.

Samsung maps 2026 roadmap: Galaxy S26 AI focus, slimmer design, Wide Fold rumors

January 29, 2026, 5:58 AM EST. Samsung outlined its 2026 smartphone roadmap during a Q4 2025 earnings call, flagging the Galaxy S26 series for the first half of 2026 and introducing next-generation AI experiences powered by a second-generation custom application processor. The company said the flagship line will not dramatically increase specs but will offer new AI features, with broader integration via partnerships with Google and other industry players. Design will stress slimmer, lighter devices, and Samsung has reportedly scrapped the Galaxy S26 Edge. In foldables, Samsung aims for a stronger lineup and is testing new form factors, including the possible Wide Fold. Beyond phones, growth is expected for Galaxy Watches with added AI features, while earbuds will expand; tablets face slower replacement, offset by notebook AI PCs.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Qi2 magnet charger leak hints case required for charging

January 29, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. SamMobile obtained images of Samsung's Magnet Wireless Charger for the Galaxy S26, stamped Qi2 25W and resembling a MagSafe puck. The black puck uses a braided USB-C cable, with a bulky box around the plug. Packaging asks users to pair the charger with a Qi2-ready case to enable charging and notes magnetic alignment only for Galaxy S25 Series or later, raising questions about built-in magnets. Samsung confirms the charger is Qi2 certified and capable of up to 25W with a compatible power adapter, but warns charging speed varies. The company has previously released accessories that require a case. While rumors persist about internal Qi2 magnets in the S26, no solid confirmation exists yet. Readers are left waiting for official word.

Apple set to take 30% commission from Patreon creators on iOS as deadline moves to 2026

January 29, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. Apple is extending a deadline for Patreon creators to switch to the iOS in-app purchase system, moving to Nov. 1, 2026 after an earlier target of 2025. TechCrunch reports the change applies to creators using the Patreon app on iPhone and iPad. Apple collects a 30% commission on most in-app payments, with a reduced 15% after a subscription has been active for more than a year. Patreon lets creators either raise prices in the iOS app or absorb the fee; supporters can still pay through Patreon's website to bypass the App Store cut. About 4% of creators remain on the legacy billing system, and Patreon says it is disappointed with how Apple has navigated the policy.

Android 16+ adds enhanced theft-protection features with new controls

January 29, 2026, 5:50 AM EST. Google rolls out a set of theft-protection updates for Android 16+ built on existing security tools. The update adds a dedicated on/off toggle for Failed Authentication Lock, giving users more control after too many failed attempts. Identity Check, expanded to cover all apps using the Biometric Prompt, now benefits critical tools like banking apps and Google Password Manager. To deter guesswork, the system increases the lockout time after failed PIN, pattern, or password attempts, and no longer counts identical incorrect guesses toward the retry limit. A new optional security question in Remote Lock aims to verify the real device owner initiated the lock. Google says the changes are designed to make devices harder targets for criminals.

Tesla shifts gears as Model S and X are discontinued to focus on Optimus humanoid robot

January 29, 2026, 5:44 AM EST. Tesla will discontinue Model S and Model X production and pivot toward its Optimus humanoid robot, signaling a broader move beyond traditional electric vehicles. CEO Elon Musk told an earnings call that S and X production will wind down next quarter. The company has also committed $2 billion to xAI, Musk's AI venture, and has long said Optimus could become its biggest product. Analysts such as Dan Coatsworth of AJ Bell say the EV exit could fund the robot push and broader AI ambitions. Musk has forecast production of Optimus by end-2026 with public sale in 2027, though dates have shifted in the past. Optimus weighs about 56 kg, stands 170 cm tall, and is intended for factories and mass production with a goal of sub-$20,000 per unit.

Samsung discounts most Galaxy tablets in the U.S. for a limited time

January 29, 2026, 5:32 AM EST. Samsung is offering limited-time discounts across most Galaxy tablets in the United States. The deals cover the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, Tab S10 FE, Tab S10 FE+, Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra, with savings of $70, $100, $100, $100 and $120 respectively. Discounts apply across all storage and color configurations and do not require a trade-in. Perks such as bundles on wearables or keyboard accessories are not included. Samsung also provides three payment options: a one-time payment, a 24-month plan, or four installments. The information does not specify an end date for the sale.

Tech giants back OpenAI with US$100 billion bet as Nvidia and Microsoft lead a US$730 billion power play

January 29, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. OpenAI is pursuing a landmark funding round, potentially reaching US$100 billion to fuel AI infrastructure needs amid fierce competition. Major backers and existing investors are moving to bolster the company's data centers and compute capacity. Nvidia and Microsoft are among the most visible leaders steering the discussions, aligning with a broader push to commercialize AI through platforms and services. The round underlines a larger, capital-intensive shift in the field and a race to secure scalable infrastructure, partnerships, and software ecosystems behind next-generation models. Details remain private, but the move signals a new era of scale and strategic positioning in AI.

1X2 Network selects Internet Vikings for West Virginia hosting with dual data centers

January 29, 2026, 5:24 AM EST. US-licensed in-state host Internet Vikings announced a hosting deal for 1X2 Network, a UK-based iGaming supplier. Under the agreement, the provider will run services from its two West Virginia data centers, delivering built-in redundancy to support ongoing growth in the regulated U.S. market. The deal underscores the partners' alignment as 1X2 Network expands in the United States. CEO Rickard Vikström said the partnership reflects a shared understanding of operating reliably in regulated markets, and the supplier highlighted rapid delivery and flexibility. Christopher Reid, Commercial Director at 1X2 Network, praised the responsiveness and adaptability of Internet Vikings. The service portfolio includes in-state hosting for iGaming, disaster recovery, and security measures such as ISO 27001 certification and DDoS protection from Cloudflare.

AI investing faces project cost blowouts, warns ADM ISI's Ostwald

January 29, 2026, 5:22 AM EST. ADM ISI's Marc Ostwald warns that the next frontier in AI investing carries a risk of project cost blowouts as prices for mega deals rise. Ostwald notes companies chasing AI scale face higher-than-expected development and integration expenses, which could squeeze margins and threaten returns. He also weighs macro factors, including a continuing pattern of yen repatriation and the US dollar debasement trade, arguing these cycles can affect financing costs and cross-border capital flows. The comments underscore how tech risk converges with macro dynamics in large AI projects, where cost overruns can undermine enthusiasm for big-ticket deals.

Web pages stall when JavaScript is disabled, triggering client-side load errors

January 29, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. Users hitting a site with JavaScript disabled see a generic error message that suggests enabling JavaScript, checking the connection, disabling ad blockers, or trying a different browser. The message points to a broader problem: many sites rely on client-side scripts for core functions, and failures in browser configurations or extensions can block access. Experts say developers should consider progressive enhancement and server-side rendering to reduce dependence on client-side scripts. Enterprises face increased support tickets when basic content is blocked; operators should implement fallback paths and clear remediation steps to improve resilience and accessibility.

Chrome's Gemini auto browse rolls out in preview to handle multi-step tasks

January 29, 2026, 5:18 AM EST. Google Chrome is expanding its Gemini AI with an auto browse feature that can undertake multi-step tasks on users' behalf. In preview for AI Pro and AI Ultra on desktop in the United States, auto browse can search flights and hotels, fill forms, schedule appointments, and file expense reports, moving beyond simple autofill to agentic actions. It can analyze images to identify items and add similar products to a cart, and, with Password Manager permission, sign in to sites and perform actions. Google positions the tool as a way to automate mundane web chores while guarding against misuse. The rollout currently excludes mobile, and availability is limited to macOS, Windows, and Chromebooks during this preview stage.

AI-generated footage misleads on Kamchatka snowfall, AFP says

January 29, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. Un usually heavy snowfall in Russia's Kamchatka region in January 2026 prompted emergency measures, but online clips claiming to show multi-storey snowdrifts are AI-generated. Investigators traced the viral videos to a Threads post by a user who said the material was created with the Grok AI chatbot. AFP FactCheck notes visual errors typical of synthetic content and the posts circulated in multiple languages, including English, French and Romanian. In reality, authorities reported severe snow but real footage shows rescuers and residents dealing with piles up to second-storey height. The material flagged by Hive Moderation as likely AI-generated deepfake content. The event underscores how deepfakes can spread alongside genuine emergency reporting, complicating public understanding of damage from the Kamchatka snowfall.

Easton approves lease to bring high-speed fiber internet from Greenlight Networks

January 29, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. Easton City Council approved a five-year lease allowing Greenlight Networks to use space in the Fourth Street Garage at 39 N. Fourth St. to install fiber and related infrastructure for expanded service to businesses and residents. The Rochester, N.Y.-based provider will pay $1,500 a month, or $18,000 annually. The lease covers ground-floor space for fiber and electric conduit, plus a generator. Greenlight will offer complimentary fiber internet service to the Fourth Street Garage, and Easton will end its existing PenTeleData arrangement, saving about $6,600 a year. Greenlight, founded in 2011, serves more than 225,000 homes and about 10,000 small businesses in parts of New York and is expanding into Pennsylvania and Baltimore.

Starlink reportedly offers free service in Iran amid internet blackout

January 29, 2026, 5:08 AM EST. Starlink is reportedly offering free service in Iran after the government cut internet access, a move that has allowed images and videos of protests to reach outside audiences. The company does not officially operate in Iran, and thousands of Starlink terminals have been smuggled in since 2022, when the US allowed sanctioned tech tools to be sold to Iranians. Bloomberg cited a person familiar with Starlink services; US President Trump said he hoped Starlink would restore access. Iran Human Rights' Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam said Starlink has been crucial for sharing information, including death toll estimates. Iran has a history of internet shutdowns, with 17 since 2018, varying in scope. Experts say this blackout this month is more extensive due to geographic spread and restrictions on international phone access.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold hits U.S. this week with 10-inch foldable display

January 29, 2026, 5:04 AM EST. Samsung says the Galaxy Z TriFold goes on sale in the United States this week, starting January 30, 2026. The device unfolds to a 10-inch display, the largest on a Galaxy phone, then folds to pocket size. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy, pairs with a 200 MP camera, and carries the largest battery yet in a foldable. A built-in Galaxy AI suite powers features like Photo Assist, Generative Edit, and Sketch to Image, plus Gemini Live, which interprets what users see, say, and do. The phone uses a titanium hinge and reinforced overcoat for durability, and it completes a 200,000-fold multi-folding test. Samsung positions the TriFold as a bridge between smartphone and tablet in one device.

Tesla's Fremont factory shifts from Model S/X to Optimus robot production

January 29, 2026, 5:02 AM EST. Tesla's Fremont, California factory is ending Model S/X production to repurpose the space for mass production of its humanoid robot, Optimus. The report by Andrea Nakano for KPIX-TV frames the move as part of the company's robotics push.

CoreWeave quietly builds AI-focused cloud, aims to lead AI data centers

January 29, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. CoreWeave is building an AI-focused cloud platform that aims to lead the next wave of data-center technology, despite being a small player with a roughly $53 billion market capitalization and ongoing losses. The company's backlog has surged to more than $55 billion, while revenue in the first nine months of 2025 jumped about 204% year over year to nearly $3.6 billion. But expenses rose faster, up about 267%, as CoreWeave expanded its infra. It has funded growth with more than $6.2 billion in capex and about $14 billion in debt, much carrying high interest. The financing included a $2.2 billion convertible notes offering at 1.75%, convertible to stock at $215.60 through 2031. Partnerships with Nvidia and customers like OpenAI and Microsoft back the push.

NVIDIA expands AI data-center partnership with CoreWeave with $2B investment

January 29, 2026, 4:58 AM EST. NVIDIA and CoreWeave expanded their collaboration with a $2 billion investment in CoreWeave Class A stock at $87.20 per share. The deal aims to accelerate the build-out of more than 5 gigawatts of AI data centers by 2030, expanding capacity for enterprise AI workloads. CoreWeave will build and operate AI factories using NVIDIA's accelerated computing platform, with NVIDIA deepening its alignment across infrastructure, software, and platform development. The move follows NVIDIA's January 5 unveiling of the Rubin platform at CES, a six-chip family designed for large-scale AI training and inference in data centers. NVIDIA products range from GeForce GPUs to A100/H100 data-center chips powering AI workloads.

Fake Moltbot AI coding assistant in VS Code Marketplace drops malware

January 29, 2026, 4:54 AM EST. Cybersecurity researchers flagged a malicious VS Code extension posing as a Moltbot AI coding assistant. The package, 'ClawdBot Agent – AI Coding Assistant' (clawdbot.clawdbot-agent), appeared on the official marketplace January 27, 2026 and was removed by Microsoft. Moltbot is an open-source project by Peter Steinberger that lets users run a local LLM-powered assistant and interact across popular platforms. There is no legitimate VS Code extension from Moltbot. The malicious extension auto-executes on IDE launch, fetches a config.json from clawdbot.getintwopc[.]site, and runs Code.exe to deploy a remote desktop client (ScreenConnect), linking to meeting.bulletmailer[.]net:8041 for persistence. A fallback loads DWrite.dll via DLL side-loading or via Dropbox, ensuring delivery even if the C2 fails. The incident underscores abuse of widely used developer tools.

Tesla's car-lite shift and an app to die for

January 29, 2026, 4:50 AM EST. Tesla is recalibrating around software and services, signaling a car-lite shift that leans on over-the-air updates and a growing app ecosystem. The company aims to extend car ownership by placing more control in the Tesla app, which handles charging, vehicle status, updates and remote features, reducing the need for hardware-heavy changes. Executives describe software-defined experiences-from Autopilot refinements to energy products and in-car services-as a moat against rivals. Analysts caution that hardware refresh cycles and regulatory constraints could temper momentum. Investors will watch whether profits come from software subscriptions and data-enabled services rather than traditional hardware sales. The broader industry trend is clear: the interface moves from cockpit to apps as revenue grows from services.

Alibaba's Zhenwu 810E targets Nvidia with A800-A100-class performance

January 29, 2026, 4:48 AM EST. Alibaba unveiled its in-house AI processor, the Zhenwu 810E, developed by T-Head Semiconductor, as part of a push to vertically integrate AI chips, cloud infrastructure and large language models. The company framed the move as strengthening control over hardware and software for AI workloads. The Zhenwu 810E appeared on Alibaba's website, signaling a direct, public rollout. The launch is framed as a challenge to Nvidia, with ambitions to reach A800-A100-class performance. Alibaba has pursued a hardware-software stack to support its cloud business, though details on specs and availability remain scarce.

China plans space-based AI data centres, challenging SpaceX ambitions

January 29, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Beijing plans to launch space-based AI data centres within five years, state media reported, citing the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC). The plan calls for a gigawatt-class space digital-intelligence infrastructure that will integrate cloud, edge and terminal computing to process data in space, CCTV said. SpaceX is pursuing orbital AI centres funded by a planned $25 billion IPO, with Musk telling Davos that solar-powered data centers in orbit could cut AI costs and generate up to five times more power than ground panels. China's policy paper envisions a Space Cloud by 2030, tying space solar power to AI computing as a pillar of the 15th Five-Year Plan. CASC also targets orbital tourism and, by 2045, aims to be a world-leading space power; reusable-rocket progress remains a bottleneck. China launched a record 93 space launches last year.

TSMC seen as the better AI infrastructure play over Intel for 2026

January 29, 2026, 4:34 AM EST. Intel has surged on government support and a high-profile Nvidia investment, but investors should note growth remains elusive: Q4 revenue fell to $13.7 billion with a GAAP loss of $591 million, and Q1 guidance points to a revenue trough around $11.7-$12.7 billion and break-even adjusted EPS. By contrast, TSMC dominates AI-era chipmaking. The world's leading contract semiconductor maker accounts for roughly 90% of advanced chips and about 77% of its revenue from chips at 7nm or smaller. In Q4 it posted revenue of $33.7 billion and a 54% operating margin. Valuation sits around a P/E of 32, close to the S&P 500, underscoring its premium but reflecting its choke point in the AI supply chain. For AI infrastructure exposure, TSMC offers a steadier track record.

AI-enabled 'ghost student' scams target college financial aid, investigators warn

January 29, 2026, 4:26 AM EST. Federal investigators warn that AI is enabling an army of ghost students to steal financial aid by submitting AI-generated applications. The scheme touches tens of millions of dollars and has opened about 200 investigations nationwide. In California, roughly a third of applications were fraudulent in 2024, costing about $13 million in lost funds. Over five years, the federal government has pursued more than $350 million in such fraud. Some campuses push back: Cerritos College added vetting and live verification; only one attempt got through, worth about $5,000. The Los Angeles Community College District spends about half a million annually on controls. Officials say continued vigilance is essential to reduce losses and protect students and taxpayers.

Tesla ends Model S and X production to repurpose lines for Optimus robots

January 29, 2026, 4:24 AM EST. Tesla said it will discontinue the Model S and Model X to free capacity for building its humanoid robots, Optimus. The company expects the phased-out models to end production in the coming quarter, with owners still receiving technical support for the vehicle's lifetime. The move follows years when the newer Model 3 and Model Y dominated deliveries, accounting for about 97% of volume last year. Tesla plans to use the existing production lines to manufacture Optimus, which Chief Executive Elon Musk has said could begin selling by the end of next year. The firm also aims to roll out fully autonomous robotaxi vehicles (driverless taxis) this year, dubbed Cybercab, and to develop the Cybertruck into an autonomous model.

Samsung unveils 13-inch Color E-Paper with bio-resin housing for signage

January 29, 2026, 4:16 AM EST. Samsung this week announced a 13-inch Color E-Paper display designed for signage, featuring a housing partly made from bio-resin derived from phytoplankton. The company says the material is an alternative to petroleum-based plastics, with only 10% of the housing made from phytoplankton and about 45% from recycled plastic. The device ships in a paper-only box. Static content uses zero watts, and the device claims lower power use for refresh cycles compared with traditional digital signage. The tablet-like display is roughly the size of an A4 sheet, 0.9 kg, 17.9 mm thick, with a 1,600 x 1,200 resolution and a 4:3 aspect ratio, USB-C charging, and a built-in battery. Samsung positions it for business signage on tables, doors, and counters; it is not a consumer Kindle competitor.

New study finds rare but rising disempowerment risk in real-world AI chats

January 29, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. Researchers analyzed 1.5 million Claude.ai conversations to identify disempowerment patterns in real-world AI use. They focus on three domains-beliefs, values, and actions-and define severe disempowerment as when AI guidance compromises autonomous judgment. The study finds such outcomes in roughly 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 10,000 conversations, varying by domain. The patterns often involve individual users seeking Claude.ai guidance on personal, emotionally charged decisions. Users may rate disempowering exchanges as helpful in the moment but regret actions later. The rate appears to be rising over time. The authors say most AI interactions are beneficial, but awareness and safeguards are needed to ensure AI empowers, not undermines, users.

UK CMA proposes opt-out rules for Google's AI features, demands attribution

January 29, 2026, 4:08 AM EST. Britain's CMA proposed rules to give publishers more control over how Google uses their content in AI features such as AI Overviews. The plan would let publishers opt out of having their material used in AI and require clearer attribution when their work appears. Google says it will work with the web ecosystem and is exploring updates to allow site-level opt-outs of search-generated AI features, while avoiding fragmentation or a broken user experience. The CMA package centers on opt-out abilities, fair ranking, and transparency: publishers can block AI use at site-wide and page levels without being penalized; Google must explain how content is used in training and AI features and attribute sources clearly. Publishers still want a structural remedy-separate AI crawlers-but the CMA has stopped short of that, emphasizing behavioral controls for now.

Moltbot seeks to challenge AI giants, but its always-on design raises security concerns

January 29, 2026, 4:04 AM EST. Formerly known as Clawdbot, Moltbot is an open-source AI assistant from Austrian developer Peter Steinberger that plugs into large language models. It positions itself as a wrapper that can operate across apps and messaging services, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, Discord, Google Chat, Signal, and iMessage, and it can initiate conversations with proactive prompts like reminders and daily briefs. Since its release a few weeks ago, it has drawn attention on GitHub and even helped spark a Cloudflare stock move due to using its infrastructure. However, setup requires server configuration, command-line work, and complex authentication; it relies on commercial models via APIs rather than local LLMs. Its always-on design raises security concerns, especially prompt injection risks that could force unauthorized actions.

Musk: Optimus robots not yet doing useful work at Tesla; Gen 3 targets mass production by 2026

January 29, 2026, 4:02 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk told the Q4 2025 earnings call that no Optimus robots are performing useful work in its factories. He said the program remains in early R&D and that current units are learning rather than deployed at scale. The admission undercuts two years of public projections that thousands of bots would operate by 2025. Musk noted ongoing iteration and deprecation of older versions, while Tesla outlined a Gen 3 design intended for mass production. Start of production is planned before the end of 2026, with an eventual steady capacity of about 1 million robots per year. The update follows prior reporting of delays, leadership turnover, and a challenging path to large-scale deployment, even as the company insists progress continues.

Tripo AI launches Tripo Studio, a unified AI-driven 3D platform to streamline text-to-3D and image-to-3D workflows

January 29, 2026, 3:54 AM EST. NEW YORK CITY – Tripo AI unveils Tripo Studio, a unified, AI-driven 3D creation platform designed to streamline how digital assets are conceived and built. The vendor says it fixes long-standing workflow friction by integrating generation, editing, refinement and export into one workspace, replacing a patchwork of modeling, texturing and rigging tools. Co-founder Simon Song says Tripo Studio represents a fundamental redesign of the 3D pipeline, focusing on the entire user journey rather than standalone generators. Key features include Text to 3D, turning written prompts into usable models in seconds, and Image to 3D, among others. The product targets designers in gaming, film, and branding seeking faster ideation and iteration.

Tech tip: Platforms let you dial down AI-generated content

January 29, 2026, 3:52 AM EST. AI slop is spreading across feeds, screens and speakers. Some platforms now let users curb AI-generated content. Henry Ajder warns it's incredibly difficult to remove AI slop entirely. Pinterest rolled out a tuner to reduce AI content, first on Android and desktop, with a later rollout to iOS. It lets users lower AI in categories such as beauty, art, fashion and home decor, then adds architecture, health, sports and more. To use it, go to Settings > refine your recommendations > GenAI interests and toggle categories you want to see less AI content. TikTok hosts a large share of AI-generated clips – about 1.3 billion labeled as AI-generated, according to the company. Controls exist, but complete elimination remains unlikely.

ASML's EUV machines power Nvidia's AI boom, monopoly fears grow

January 29, 2026, 3:50 AM EST. ASML, the only maker of EUV lithography machines, commands about 90% of the lithography market. Its low-NA and high-NA systems print ever finer patterns, underpinning Nvidia's AI chips. Bank of America analysts say ASML could approach a monopoly in next-generation EUV. Booking activity in Q4 2025 topped expectations, signaling strong demand. These machines-priced at 320-400 million euros-are bought by chip foundries such as TSMC and used to produce leading chips. Rival Nikon and Canon remain distant. Nvidia's value and the AI surge ride on ASML's tech, as EUV light-generated from molten tin droplets and guided by mirrors-creates the patterns etched on silicon. The path to broader AI adoption still hinges on ASML maintaining its lead.

BigBear.ai's Ask Sage acquisition could boost growth, but profits remain unclear

January 29, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. BigBear.ai's stock rose around 15% year-to-date after announcing the $250 million acquisition of Ask Sage, a provider described as mission-ready AI for national security. The deal could broaden its AI portfolio and deepen its footprint in regulated markets, including defense. Yet the company remains unprofitable, with four straight quarters of net losses totaling $426.3 million on revenue of $144.2 million. The stock trades around $6.01 and has a market cap near $2.6 billion, down about 30% from a 52-week high. Analysts will watch how the acquisition affects earnings and cash flow, not just revenue growth. With Palantir-style potential cited by some, investors face a transition risk while evaluating whether the deal marks a turning point or a passing rally.

Samsung previews privacy feature to shield Galaxy screens from shoulder surfing

January 29, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. Samsung previewed a privacy feature that shields Galaxy screens from onlookers. The company did not disclose technical details, but said users can tailor visibility by app or during entry of passwords, with multiple settings to adjust what others see. The feature may ship with the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. In a newsroom release, Samsung described it as a new layer of privacy to deter shoulder surfing in public spaces, letting users read messages or enter codes without being watched. It reportedly blends hardware and software, and can hide parts of the screen such as the notification area. An online tipster, Ice Universe, posted screenshots showing the notification area blanking at an angle. Apple recently addressed similar concerns with iOS 17.3, but Samsung has not set a release date; a February launch event is possible.

Quantum-centric supercomputing: IBM envisions a hybrid CPU-GPU-QPU future

January 29, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. IBM positions itself as a leader in quantum computing, but it frames the field as part of a broader shift toward a hybrid compute stack. The company envisions a quantum-centric supercomputing paradigm that blends CPUs, GPUs and QPUs to tackle problems beyond today's capabilities. In partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, AMD, RIKEN, Algorithmiq and others, the approach shows how state-of-the-art GPUs can accelerate workflows and improve the fidelity of quantum calculations. QPUs contribute operations that are infeasible on classical hardware, while CPUs and GPUs handle scaling and parallelism at smaller problem sizes. The result is a new architecture that relies on tight integration across three processor classes and requires new algorithms to exploit their combined strengths.

Investors expect Apple stock to move about 4% after earnings, options imply

January 29, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. Apple is set to report quarterly earnings after the market close Thursday. Based on current options pricing, traders expect the stock to move about 4% in either direction by week's end. From Wednesday's close near $256, a 4% swing could lift shares to about $266 or drop to roughly $247. Shares sit about 11% below their December highs amid signals about the global smartphone market and demand for the iPhone 17. Visible Alpha pegs revenue at $138.11 billion and EPS $2.67, both up about 11% year over year. Analysts note a memory-chip shortage could pressure margins, though upside from strong iPhone results remains possible. The stock is broadly favored, with a mix of Buy and Neutral ratings and an average target near $291, implying roughly 14% upside.

Ohio requires AI policies in schools; Cincinnati-area districts map their status

January 29, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. Ohio is the first to require K-12 public schools to adopt AI policies, part of a 2025 budget move. Districts have until July 1, 2026 to adopt their own rules, after the state asked the Department of Education and Workforce to draft a model policy by year-end. In Greater Cincinnati, districts vary: Cincinnati Public Schools has already finalized its policy as early as September 2024, while Northwest Local and Mason City Schools are still brainstorming. The model policy emphasizes using AI as a tool for classroom innovation, with sections on AI literacy, staff feedback, data privacy, tool evaluation, and a human-centered approach to ensure integrity and avoid substituting teacher effort. The framework aims for consistent standards and responsible implementation.

Hidden features extend Android smartwatches beyond basics with Wear OS

January 29, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. Android smartwatches on Wear OS offer more than notifications and steps. The article highlights features tucked in Quick Settings, background apps, and compact icons that turn a watch into a standalone tool. Users can store and play offline music, use the watch as a remote shutter for a phone camera, and record audio directly on the device. Wear OS and third-party apps blur the line between phone and wrist, making the watch a control center, music player, and backup tool when the phone is out of reach. A notable option on Samsung devices is Wireless PowerShare, letting a compatible Galaxy phone wirelessly charge a paired watch, though charging is slower and not all models support it. Battery limits and device compatibility affect availability.

Lynx-R2: 126° FOV, 9 MP per-eye passthrough in standalone headset

January 29, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Lynx-R2, due this summer, targets the widest standalone field of view and highest per-eye passthrough resolution yet. The French startup says the headset runs on Qualcomm XR2 Gen 2 with 16GB RAM, four tracking cameras, a depth sensor and IR illuminators, and an open periphery design with a flip-up visor. A standout feature is aspheric pancake lenses developed with Hypervision, delivering 126° horizontal and 103° vertical FOV. It uses 2312×2160 LCDs with 3K×3K color cameras and Sony IMX616 sensors delivering 9 MP per eye at 90Hz, reportedly higher passthrough detail than Apple Vision Pro. Lynx claims end-to-end latency of 12-20 ms, and a slim 6% black line between passthrough and natural vision. Android XR was terminated; LynxOS powers the device.

Tesla to end Model S and Model X, pivot to mass-producing humanoid robots at Fremont

January 29, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. Tesla will end production of the Model S and Model X and shift Fremont's output to mass production of the Gen 3 Optimus humanoid robot, Elon Musk said on Wednesday during the company's earnings call. The move keeps the Fremont factory producing Model 3 and Model Y, while converting space used for S/X into robotic manufacturing. The company targets 1 million robots per year in Fremont, with production due to start by the end of 2026. Musk described Optimus as a general-purpose robot that can learn by watching humans, accepting tasks described verbally or via video. Current owners will still receive support; Musk urged potential buyers to order now. Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan welcomed the plan as a vote of confidence in the local workforce, and Tesla said there are no planned layoffs, with Fremont remaining North America's top-output factory.

FJDynamics' James Wu: Building robot farmers

January 29, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. James Wu, who leads FJDynamics' agriculture robotics push, outlines a path to autonomous farming. The company combines AI, computer vision and modular robots to plant, weed and harvest crops. Wu says field trials are progressing in several regions, with farmers reporting lower labor costs and steadier yields. The robots are designed for harsh farm environments, with remote diagnostics and data-driven crop management at the core. Adoption, Wu notes, hinges on reliability, cost and regulatory clarity. FJDynamics plans to scale through distributor partnerships and ongoing product iterations focused on power efficiency and durability. Industry observers say the effort mirrors a broader push toward automation in agriculture, potentially reshaping labor needs and farm economics. Wu's work, the company argues, could accelerate a shift toward tech-enabled, precision farming.

Intel weighs Nvidia, Apple foundry deals as US government stake tightens policy ties

January 29, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. Intel is weighing foundry work with Nvidia and Apple for 2028 chip production, a move that could widen its customer base and reshape the competitive landscape. A foundry is a contract manufacturing plant that fabricates chips for others, a key capability in the global supply chain. The U.S. government has taken a substantial equity stake in Intel as part of national security and industrial policy. Investors will watch how such ties influence customer mix, risk profile, and the company's role in the semiconductor supply chain. Intel's stock trades at about $48.78, up roughly 30% in the last month and 24% year to date, reflecting momentum and longer-term volatility. Details on contracts and capacity will guide valuation relative to peers.

Tesla's Japan win seen as retail push, not a revolution

January 29, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Tesla's momentum in Japan is being viewed as a retail-driven win, not a wholesale tech revolution. Analysts say the gains come from a deliberate expansion of showrooms and service capacity, localized financing options, and stronger after-sales support that reduce purchase frictions for Japanese buyers. The trend underscores consumer familiarity with electric vehicles rather than a sudden technological breakthrough. Industry executives caution that the market remains cost-sensitive, with competition from established Japanese automakers and still-uncertain policy levers. Tesla declined to comment. While sales have improved, the sales mix and production constraints suggest the lift may prove modest compared with dominant markets elsewhere. The result: a measured victory that relies on retail muscle in Japan rather than a new EV revolution.

Samsung chip profits soar as AI demand fuels memory market

January 29, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Bloomberg reports that AI spending by Meta and other hyperscalers is lifting profits at memory makers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Both firms say capex will rise to expand memory production, in line with Meta's plan to spend up to $135 billion this year. Investors rewarded ambition as AI hardware demand shows no signs of slowing into 2026. Samsung and SK Hynix posted multi-fold profit growth as memory tightens and lines shift to HBM for AI data centers. ASML beat estimates on lithography demand. Analysts warn the surge in capex may cool share prices as markets digest aggressive plans. The supply-demand imbalance risks bottlenecks for smartphones, cars and data centers, and some executives warn memory availability could constrain growth.

Germany plans satellite missile-detection system to cut reliance on US

January 29, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Germany plans to develop a satellite-based missile-detection system to cut reliance on the United States for warning data. Officials say the project would bolster Europe's strategic autonomy and complement existing early-warning networks. The effort faces questions over cost, governance, and interoperability with U.S. systems, as Berlin weighs partnerships with European agencies and asset-sharing arrangements. Brussels and Berlin have signaled a broader push to diversify critical defense infrastructure away from a single ally, while monitoring feasibility and security implications.

From Clawdbot to Moltbot: A Viral AI Assistant's 72-Hour Rebrand

January 29, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. Over three days, Clawdbot transformed into Moltbot, an open-source AI assistant that actually acts on your computer across apps like WhatsApp and Slack. It can remember conversations, send reminders, and run tasks via AI APIs, with heavy lifting done by Claude, ChatGPT or Gemini. No special hardware is required, though Mac Minis are popular for local models. The project exploded on GitHub, hitting tens of thousands of stars as backers-from AI researchers to investors-praised its potential. A trademark tug-of-war with Anthropic forced a rename from Clawdbot. The result: Moltbot, a lobster-logoed persona with real, proactive utility and a cautionary note on branding in AI circles.

Infosys, Tennis Australia unveil AI-first experiences for Australian Open 2026

January 29, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Infosys and Tennis Australia unveiled AI-first experiences for Australian Open 2026, extending an eight-year partnership and powered by Infosys Topaz. The rollout includes MatchFeel, a tactile experience for blind and visually impaired fans that translates live action into touch on a magnetic ring and vibrating cues, and Rally, a humanoid AI mascot at the Infosys Fan Zone with features like Serve Me a Fortune, Selfie Mode and Ask Rally, all under Responsible AI guardrails. Also introduced Keys to the Match, offering three simple insights per player using rankings, head-to-head, and win probabilities. Enhancements to Gen AI Stadium, Infosys Match Centre, and AI Shot of the Day for highlights. The aim: broaden access, elevate on-ground and digital experiences, and demonstrate responsible AI at scale.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leak hints at changes; no dual-camera Pro setup in manual page

January 29, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. A circulated user manual page, purportedly for the Chinese version of DJI's pocket gimbal, suggests the Osmo Pocket 4 will swap in a Zoom button and a customizable hardware button, and retains a rotating touchscreen that also powers the device, according to a Weibo post by the Independent Photographers Association. The leak contrasts with Pocket 3 and does not show a dual-camera system as some observers expected, though industry chatter about a 'Pro' model persists. DJI has not confirmed the document; analysts note rival formats from Insta360 and market competition. Social posts by leakers, including Igor Bogdanov, amplify talk of a camera-capable gimbal, but the page remains unverified. Observers caution against treating the page as official guidance ahead of any formal launch.

SK Hynix overtakes Samsung in 2025 operating profit on AI memory edge

January 29, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. SK Hynix beat Samsung Electronics in 2025 operating profit, marking the first time the memory specialist outsized its diversified rival. SK Hynix posted 47.2 trillion won in full-year operating profit, versus Samsung's 43.6 trillion won, as the group kept its focus on memory while Samsung's broader businesses weighed on overall results. SK Hynix extended its global lead in HBM (high-bandwidth memory), a key element in AI servers and Nvidia-powered systems, helping it capture the lion's share of Nvidia memory contracts last year. Samsung expanded HBM sales and aims to roll out HBM4 this year, with analysts predicting a limited near-term turnaround. Industry watchers say the HBM race remains tight between SK Hynix and Samsung, with Micron trailing behind.

Windows 11 expands Cross-Device Resume to Android apps, adds Spotify and Edge sessions

January 29, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Microsoft is expanding its Cross-Device Resume feature in Windows 11, moving beyond OneDrive to support Android apps. Starting with Windows 11 builds 26100.7701 and 26200.7701 in the Release Preview Channel, the tool now lets you resume Spotify, Office apps, and Edge browsing sessions on a PC, as well as Vivo Browser and files opened in Copilot on devices from Samsung, Honor, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi. The rollout follows last year's limited launch and requires Windows Insider access with a gradual public release expected in coming weeks. Microsoft still trails Apple in seamless cross-device syncing, and Spotify's presence is framed as a win but not a full replacement for dedicated ecosystems. The company hints at more app support and potential Chrome syncing with Google in future cooperation.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 hits $250 off on Amazon, price at $549.99

January 29, 2026, 2:12 AM EST. Amazon cuts the Apple Watch Ultra 2 to $549.99, a $250 discount that matches its lowest price to date. The deal covers the GPS + Cellular 49mm model; some colors show $561.29 for the large size. Released in September 2023, the Ultra 2 remains current as Apple rolls out watchOS improvements and the Ultra 3 lands two years later. The rugged watch features a titanium case, a 3,000-nit display, 100 meters of water resistance and up to 36 hours of battery life, with fitness and sleep tracking highlights. For cheaper options, the first-generation Ultra is $319 refurbished, and the Series 11 is $489.95. Availability and prices can change at any time.

NASA advances Artemis II toward wet dress rehearsal as launch date eyed

January 29, 2026, 2:00 AM EST. NASA is moving Artemis II toward a wet dress rehearsal of the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion, intended to test fueling and countdown procedures under near-launch conditions. Teams will load more than 700,000 gallons of super-cold liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen into the SLS tanks while monitoring systems and ground procedures. After fueling, crews run a simulated countdown to just before liftoff, including planned holds to practice stopping and restarting the sequence. The exercise excludes the mission crew, who are in a 14-day quarantine at Kennedy Space Center to guard against illness. Results will inform overall readiness and help set a firm launch date, potentially as early as February 6 at 9:41 p.m. EST.

Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway to power Tesla Semi charging via Pilot Travel Centers

January 29, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. Berkshire Hathaway's Pilot Travel Centers will install Semi Chargers at locations along major corridors, including I-5 and I-10, as it partners with Tesla to support the first large-scale rollout of the Tesla Semi. The plan envisions four to eight charging stalls per site, delivering up to 1.2 megawatts at each stall, with compatibility for the Tesla Semi and potential future use by other heavy-duty EVs. Pilot, the largest network of travel centers in North America, says the effort could help validate volume production of the Tesla Semi in summer 2026, which Tesla indicated is on track in its quarterly results. Berkshire has previously worked with GM and EVgo on charging infrastructure at travel centers. The move could aid fleets such as PepsiCo that already operate Tesla Semis.

Michigan man pleads guilty to cyberstalking for AI-generated pornography of influencer

January 29, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. An Oakland County man pleaded guilty to cyberstalking after creating AI-generated pornography of a social media influencer from public photos. Prosecutors say 37-year-old Joshua Stilman produced the images between February and March 2025 and sent private messages asking about the victim's sexual preferences, then threatened to post the AI images to her followers if she did not respond. U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Detroit officials described the case as evidence that cyberstalking can be amplified by artificial intelligence. Stilman faces up to five years in prison; sentencing is set for May 21, 2026. FBI Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan praised the victim for coming forward, underscoring accountability for online harassment.

Dispatch censored on Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch, no Visual Censorship toggle

January 29, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Dispatch is censored on Nintendo Switch 2 and the standard Switch. In PC and PS5 versions, a Visual Censorship setting let players toggle censorship; that option is not present on Nintendo platforms, so players see a censored experience by default. All scenes remain, but nudity and some visuals are covered with a black bar. AdHoc Studio said it worked with Nintendo to ensure the content met platform criteria, but the core narrative and gameplay remain identical to the original release. The comments suggest Nintendo has been pushing stricter guidelines for its platforms. It's unclear what's driving the shift. Were you planning to pick up Dispatch on Nintendo Switch 2 or Switch? Share your thoughts on the censorship changes.

Samsung launches 13-inch Color E-Paper with phytoplankton-based bio-resin housing

January 29, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Samsung Electronics unveiled the 13-inch Color E-Paper (EM13DX), the world's first display with a housing built from phytoplankton-derived bio-resin. The paper-thin panel uses digital ink and ultra-low power operation to replace traditional signage. At roughly A4 size, it delivers 1,600 x 1,200 resolution in a 4:3 aspect and runs on a rechargeable battery with USB-C and flexible mounting. Weighing about 0.9 kg, it is designed for shelves, counters and doors and can display static images at zero watts. The housing consists of 45% recycled plastic and 10% phytoplankton bio-resin, verified by UL, with packaging that is 100% paper. Samsung says the innovation reduces carbon impact versus petroleum plastics by more than 40%.

Samsung teases built-in privacy layer for Galaxy S26 Ultra to shield screen from onlookers

January 29, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Samsung is teasing a built-in privacy layer for the Galaxy S26 Ultra that would shield screen content from shoulder-surfers without an external glass screen. In a brief press note, Samsung described the feature as a way to give users a choice over who can see what, including app-level controls and adjustable visibility settings for entering sensitive details. The company did not name the feature or specify whether it uses a traditional privacy screen or a more advanced, content-aware approach, and there is no indication the system will require extra hardware. The materials offer no mention of Qi2 compatibility, leaving questions about power or charging integration. Analysts warn the concept would require on-device recognition of content, user, and context to activate effectively.

Cold weather affects EV batteries, local Jacksonville shop says

January 29, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A cold snap in Northeast Florida is affecting EV batteries. Bridges Auto Repair & Electric says cold weather drives down energy in EV batteries, raising charging times and shortening range. Owner Cory Seifert notes the chill reduces energy available to heat the cabin and the battery pack. Unlike gasoline cars, EVs burn power to stay warm, creating a double hit on efficiency. Hybrids, which rely on an internal combustion engine, warm the battery more quickly and lose less range. The shop suggests parking in a garage or using a cover to limit heat loss and help starts stay reliable. The takeaway: cold snaps worsen short-term EV performance, but effects ease as temperatures rise.

Tesla ends Model S and Model X production to shift toward Optimus robots

January 29, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. Tesla will end production of the Model S and Model X in 2026 at its Fremont factory to clear capacity for its Optimus humanoid robots, CEO Elon Musk said on the company's earnings call. He described the move as bringing the two programs to an 'honorable discharge' as the company pivots toward autonomy and AI-driven manufacturing. Tesla aims to produce up to 1 million Optimus robots annually once the transition completes. The Model S and Model X have run since 2012 and 2015, respectively, with minor refreshes in recent years; sales for S/X/Cybertruck combined totaled 50,850 in the period cited. Tesla will keep producing the Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck. The shift underscores Tesla's strategy to lean into AI and robotics rather than traditional luxury sedans.

Samsung Debuts 13-Inch Color E-Paper With Phytoplankton Bio-Resin Housing

January 29, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. Samsung Electronics unveiled the 13-inch Color E-Paper (EM13DX), the smallest model in its Color E-Paper lineup, built with a housing using phytoplankton-based bio-resin. The ultra-thin display relies on digital ink technology and ultra-low power for signage on shelves and doors. It includes a rechargeable embedded battery, USB Type-C and flexible mounting, weighing 0.9 kg and 17.9 mm thick. With 1,600 x 1,200 resolution in a 4:3 aspect ratio, the panel features a color imaging algorithm that aims for a paper-like look. The housing is UL-verified and composed of 45% recycled plastic and 10% phytoplankton-based bio-resin; packaging is 100% paper. Samsung says static images run at zero watts, helping reduce energy use compared with traditional signs, and cites potential carbon-emission reductions of more than 40% versus petroleum plastics.

Samsung debuts 13-inch Color E-Paper with phytoplankton-derived bio-resin housing

January 29, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Samsung Electronics today announced the global launch of the 13-inch Color E-Paper (EM13DX), expanding its Color E-Paper lineup with the world's first display housed in bio-resin derived from phytoplankton. The paper-thin panel uses digital ink technology and ultra-low power to offer a practical digital signage alternative to printed materials. The panel delivers 1,600 × 1,200 resolution in a 4:3 aspect ratio. It features a rechargeable battery, USB-C, and flexible mounting, weighing 0.9 kg with battery and 17.9 mm thick. An advanced color imaging algorithm provides a paper-like look. The housing comprises 45% recycled plastic and 10% phytoplankton-based resin, verified by UL, with packaging that is 100% paper. Static images draw zero watts; updates use power.

Microsoft says OpenAI accounts for 45% of Azure cloud backlog

January 29, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Microsoft says OpenAI accounts for about 45% of the Azure cloud backlog, a measure of unfilled customer demand. The disclosure, coming from Microsoft executives, underscores the partnership's scale and OpenAI's role in Azure growth. Backlog tracks orders for cloud services not yet delivered; the figure reflects demand tied to OpenAI-powered offerings. The company has integrated OpenAI technologies into its cloud stack, branding Azure as the platform for enterprise AI services. The update highlights how the joint effort is shaping Microsoft's cloud strategy amid a broader shift to AI-enabled workloads.

Satellite Infrastructure Stocks Rise as Orbital Economy Expands Beyond SpaceX's Shadow

January 29, 2026, 1:06 AM EST. Public markets are pricing a shift from glamor toward the infrastructure that underpins the orbital economy. Globalstar's low-Earth orbit network powers IoT connectivity and emergency alerts, a move underscored by Apple integrating its satellites into iPhone SOS. Intuitive Machines bets on commercial lunar missions as NASA budgets support the Artemis program, though it carries high losses and volatility. EchoStar has reshaped its business after a $42.6 billion spectrum sale, trading on a post-transaction vision with a sizable cash-generating satellite backbone, albeit with a large net loss in the near term. Rocket Lab positions itself as a small-sat launch alternative, building a portfolio that could anchor future space logistics. The list highlights how capital markets reference infrastructure upside, not just consumer exposure to SpaceX's orbit.

Tesla sees first annual revenue drop as it shifts to AI and robotaxis

January 29, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Tesla posted its first annual revenue decline as it pivots toward AI and robotics, betting on a future beyond traditional car sales. The company said last week that human safety drivers were no longer supervising rides in a handful of cars operating in Austin, Texas on driverless trials. The move underscores a broader push into robotaxis, part of a strategy to monetize autonomous tech even as profit momentum from vehicle sales cools. Executives framed the test as progress toward full autonomy, though questions remain about scaling and safety amid regulatory hurdles and costs in the transition.

Tesla ends Model S and Model X production to focus on Optimus robots

January 29, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Tesla will wind down production of the Model S and Model X next quarter, Musk said on an earnings call. The Model S, active since 2012, is the oldest model; the Model X joined in 2015 as a tall luxury crossover with distinctive doors. The Model 3 and Model Y remain in production. Musk framed the decision as part of a shift to an autonomous future and a move to free Fremont, California capacity for mass production of the Optimus humanoid robots. Analysts noted the pivot toward automation, while investors have continued to buy into the vision despite questions about execution.

RedMagic Astra gaming tablet delivers console-like Android performance, starts at $700

January 29, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. ZDNET's review of the RedMagic Astra Gaming Tablet frames it as a rare Android performer for gaming. Onboarding is quick, and the tablet feels faster than most Android devices with a gorgeous display and buttery-smooth animations. Diablo: Immortal loads in minutes, runs with console-like performance, and the Energy Cube UI offers tuned modes, an auto-fan, and on-demand recording. The red toggle switch unlocks more performance. Battery drain increases when the fan is used, and the price sits around $700. The takeaway: the Astra redefines Android gaming tablets, combining speed, visuals, and dedicated gaming features, albeit at a premium.

Leak shows Google's Aluminium OS in action as potential ChromeOS successor

January 29, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. Leaked images from a Google bug report reveal an early build of Aluminium OS, a project described as a long-term replacement for ChromeOS that blends Android 16 features with ChromeOS. The footage, captured on an HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook, shows a desktop-style interface, split-screen work modes and a brief glimpse of the Google Play Store. Central to the system is Gemini, Google's AI assistant, advertised as a core element for a cross-device experience across tablets and smartwatches. The clip also shows faster app updates-Chrome updates reportedly run without closing or restarting. No official launch date exists; Google says ChromeOS will be supported for a period after Aluminium OS debuts.

Tesla to invest $2 billion in xAI, retire Model S and Model X, pivot to Optimus robots

January 29, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. Tesla unveiled a $2 billion investment in Elon Musk's AI venture xAI, signaling a broader push into automation. The company also said it would discontinue the Model S and Model X, using the freed factory space for Optimus humanoid robots. Executives framed the move as a way to boost efficiency and tie AI development to its core business of autonomous software and robotics. Musk said the xAI investment should help manage large fleets of autonomous vehicles and robots. Wall Street responded, with shares up about 1.8% after hours. Fourth-quarter revenue fell 3% year over year to $24.9 billion, though Tesla beat expectations. The company has moved from cars toward autonomy, and disclosed 500 robotaxis operating in Austin and San Francisco, with 1.1 million FSD (Full Self-Driving) subscriptions in 2025.

Power grids become the real AI bottleneck, not chips, says GFM

January 29, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. IRVINE, Calif. – Global Finance Media Group's AI & Energy research argues that as AI deployment accelerates, electricity and the power grid infrastructure pose a slower, harder constraint than semiconductors or software. Led by U.S.-based energy systems expert Cheng Maiyue, the series treats energy as a strategic variable shaping national security and industrial resilience, not just a cost factor. It notes that computing capacity scales quickly, but grid expansion, generation, and cross-regional coordination lag, creating regulatory and engineering bottlenecks. The work ties data centers and supply chains to military and critical-infrastructure outcomes, urging policymakers to speed permitting and buildout. The series includes studies such as The Underestimated Boundary of National Power and Power Shortages Are Becoming a Hidden Constraint on U.S. National Security.

Wisr AI Joins CSIS and DIGITAL Panel on Canada's Cyber Threat Landscape

January 29, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Vancouver-based Wisr AI Systems Inc. will join a national panel with Canada's spy agency CSIS and DIGITAL to discuss Canada's rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape. The virtual session, 'Navigating Canada's Fast-Shifting Threat Landscape: Strengthening Digital Resilience in 2026,' is set for January 29, 2026. Wisr AI CEO Rob Goehring will provide the industry view on proactive risk identification, measurement, and anticipation, as well as protecting intellectual property and building adaptive defenses against increasingly sophisticated threats. CSIS is Canada's national intelligence service, tasked with threats to national security and critical infrastructure, while DIGITAL accelerates adoption of advanced digital technologies. Wisr AI's participation underscores its growing role in public-private dialogue on national cyber resilience and AI-driven risk intelligence.

Apple's Tim Cook says he's heartbroken by Minneapolis events, spoke with Trump

January 29, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Apple CEO Tim Cook said he was heartbroken by the Minneapolis events and urged deescalation in a memo to employees this week, confirmed by CNBC. He wrote that America is strongest when it upholds its ideals and treats everyone with dignity and shared humanity. Cook said he had a good conversation with President Donald Trump to discuss his concerns and thanked him for openness to engage on issues that matter to all. He did not mention the two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis this month, Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti. The note follows a broader outpouring from tech leaders including OpenAI's Sam Altman and LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman. Cook previously pressed for racial justice after George Floyd's death in 2020.

Apple pauses four iPhone updates after Telstra network issue linked to iOS 16.7.13

January 29, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. Apple has paused four iPhone updates after Telstra flagged a network problem tied to iOS 16.7.13 on iPhone 8, 8 Plus and X that could block calls to Australia's emergency number, 000. The updates-iOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13, 15.8.6 and 12.5.8-were issued this week to extend iMessage and FaceTime beyond 2027 but carried no published CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures), i.e., they lacked security patches. Apple rolled iOS 26.2.1 for the current version and updated older releases (18, 16, 15, 12) in a bid to preserve services for older devices. Telstra said the problem prompted Apple to pause these non-26 updates to investigate. It's unclear whether other networks or regions are affected.

Advantest shares jump on record quarter, lifts profit forecast on AI demand

January 29, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. Advantest shares jumped as much as 14% on Thursday after the Japanese semiconductor equipment maker posted record quarterly sales, then trimmed gains to around 7%. The October-December quarter showed operating profit up 64% year on year to 113.6 billion yen. The company lifted its full-year operating profit forecast for the year ending March 2026 by 21.4% to 454 billion yen. Growth was led by the Test System Business, whose sales rose 51.1% to 723.1 billion yen as demand grew for system-on-a-chip testers used in AI (artificial intelligence) chips. Advantest also cited strength in memory testers for high-performance DRAM. While tariffs aren't expected to have a major impact, management flagged ongoing geopolitical and currency risks even as demand persists into Q4.

SpaceX launches GPS III SV-09 for U.S. Space Force as reassignment from ULA accelerates

January 29, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 lifted off from Cape Canaveral late Jan. 27, delivering GPS III SV-09 into medium Earth orbit. SV-09 is the ninth of ten GPS III satellites built by Lockheed Martin under a 2008 contract, part of a new generation that offers the M-code encrypted signal, L5 safety-of-life, and L1C civil compatibility, plus a laser retroreflector array for better Earth orientation measurements. The mission marks the third consecutive GPS launch reassigned from ULA to SpaceX to speed deployment. Space Systems Command says GPS III satellites with M-code provide more accuracy and jam resistance. Under a swap, ULA will launch a next-generation GPS IIIF SV-13 on Vulcan Centaur after SV-13 was moved from Falcon Heavy; Vulcan is slated for a mid-February national security launch.

Tesla to halt Model S and Model X production next quarter to pivot to Optimus factory

January 29, 2026, 12:24 AM EST. Tesla said on its earnings call it will discontinue production of the Model S and Model X next quarter and convert the space to an Optimus humanoid-robot factory. CEO Elon Musk framed the shift as part of a broader move toward an autonomous future, with Tesla expecting to produce "several times more Cybercab output per year than all vehicles combined." The company has long pitched itself as an AI company, but the change underscores a heavy emphasis on driverless robots. S and X sales trail the Model 3 and Model Y, which accounted for about 43% of US EV sales last quarter; S/X combined ~1.5% per Cox Automotive. Optimus is due next year; Cybercab in volume in 2026. Austin Robotaxis driver removal affected two or three cars.

SpaceX to launch 11,000th Starlink satellite from Vandenberg

January 29, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. SpaceX plans to launch its penultimate Falcon 9 rocket of the month on Thursday from Vandenberg Space Force Base, carrying the Starlink 17-19 mission. The mission will add 25 satellites, bringing the total Starlink launches to 11,000 since May 2019. Liftoff is set for 8:42:10 a.m. PST (11:42:10 a.m. EST / 1642:10 UTC) from Space Launch Complex 4 East, with the booster on a south-southwest trajectory. The first stage, tail number B1082, will fly for the 19th time and is expected to land on the drone ship 'Of Course I Still Love You' about eight minutes after liftoff, marking 174 landings on that vessel and 565 booster landings overall. So far in 2026, SpaceX has launched seven Starlink batches, adding 195 satellites.

World has three years to prepare for quantum threat, experts warn at Cyberweek

January 29, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. Experts at Tel Aviv Cyberweek warned the world has roughly three years to make encryption quantum-proof. They said the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) typically takes five to ten years for organizations, making this one of the decade's biggest cyber challenges. The concern over harvest now, decrypt later persists as adversaries collect encrypted data now to decrypt when quantum computers mature. Speakers also highlighted that shifting hundreds of legacy systems-some 30 to 40 years old-requires broad adoption of new standards. In Israel, regulators and buyers could accelerate change: the Bank of Israel has issued guidance on cryptographic inventories and roadmaps, while officials argued that formal regulation would create certainty and speed PQC adoption ahead of 2030.

Ukrainian Forces Destroy Russian Tirada-2 Electronic Warfare System

January 29, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian electronic warfare system on the Pivdenno-Slobozhanskyi axis, according to the State Border Guard Service on January 28. Drone operators from the STRIX unit of the 4th Border Detachment and the STAR battalion of the 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade conducted the strike after aerial reconnaissance identified the target. FPV drones delivered precise hits on the Tirada-2 electronic warfare system, designed to disable satellite communications, the Border Guard said, destroying the asset. Separately, Ukrainian forces hit a Tor-M2 air defense system near Kacha in temporarily occupied Crimea on January 27, a system that protects Russian military infrastructure. The attack follows earlier strikes against a R-330Zh Zhitel EW system by the 413th Raid Brigade. Officials emphasize ongoing efforts to degrade Russia's combat capabilities.

Tesla revenue beats estimates despite weaker vehicle deliveries

January 29, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Tesla said it will invest $2 billion in CEO Elon Musk's xAI and that Cybercab robotaxi production remains on track for this year. The move underpins Musk's push to pivot Tesla toward AI, even as the company braces for higher capital expenditure this year – above $20 billion, more than double 2025's $8.5 billion. Shares rose in after-hours trading before easing on capex details. Analysts say the company is in a transition phase, leaning on potential self-driving software revenue while auto volumes recover. Musk has repeatedly narrowed robotaxi targets; a limited rollout exists in Austin but broad deployment remains uncertain. Tesla's 2025 revenue fell about 3% to $94.83 billion with weaker EV demand and tax incentives ending.

Tesla pushes Semi production as 2025 profit falls; CAPEX to top $20 billion

January 29, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. Tesla executives on Wednesday highlighted progress toward launching production of the long-delayed Semi truck as a priority, while reporting a 46% drop in 2025 profit to $3.8 billion. In a fourth-quarter update, CFO Vaibhav Taneja said CAPEX (capital expenditures) is expected to top $20 billion as the company funds six factories, including a new megafactory and AI compute infrastructure. The company said tooling for the Semi is in place at its Nevada operations, with North American plants readied for production ramps in early 2026 for both the Semi and the autonomous Cybercab platform. Tesla has sold about 200 Semi units to PepsiCo and originally priced the truck at $150,000-$180,000. Q4 adjusted EPS of $0.50 on revenue of $24.9 billion; full-year 2025 revenue reached $94.83 billion, with 1.65 million EVs delivered, down 7% from 2024.

Bluepeak expands fiber internet to Pawhuska, Oklahoma

January 29, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Bluepeak has announced a multimillion-dollar expansion to bring fiber internet to Pawhuska, the company's 17th market in Oklahoma. The project will extend high-speed service to homes and businesses. Businesses will be offered up to 10 Gbps and homes up to 5 Gbps. CEO Rich Fish said the company aims to be a community partner and support Pawhuska's growth with fast, reliable fiber internet. The investment highlights Bluepeak's push to widen access to high-speed connections in rural and small-town markets.

Samsung's Galaxy Z Trifold becomes highest-priced smartphone at $2,899

January 29, 2026, 12:02 AM EST. According to a Yahoo Finance video, Samsung's Galaxy Z Trifold carries a $2,899 price tag, the highest price yet for a smartphone. The clip notes the device is thicker when held closed but becomes astonishingly thin when unfolded, underscoring the premium foldable design. The model's premium materials and engineering set a new benchmark in the foldable segment. Availability specifics aren't detailed in the snippet, but the price lands as a clear signal of continued demand for top-tier devices.

Apple weighs teleconverter accessory for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max amid rumor

January 29, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. Apple is evaluating a teleconverter accessory for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, a rumor from Weibo. The device would extend the camera's focal length; Oppo and vivo already offer such modules on their flagships. Apple has typically moved slowly to adopt rivals' tech, and no decision is final. The chatter also mentions a variable aperture main camera and a design in line with current generations, potentially with a transparent back twist. The post cites the vivo X300 Pro and its teleconverter as context. The report is unconfirmed; readers should await official Apple comment.